Expand and simplify: (2x+3)(x-8)

For this kind of question, the FOIL method can be used. You start by multiplying the FIRST aspects of both brackets, in this case giving 2x². Then you do the same with the OUTERS, the last elements in each bracket, giving -16x. Then you multiply the two INNER numbers in the brackets, giving 3x. The LASTERS can then be multiplied out, giving -24. When written out, this would give the expanded equation 2x²-16x+3x-24. This can be simplified by combining the like terms, in this example the terms both containing an x. This gives the final equation and answer 2x²-13x-24.