What is the value of x^2 + 2xy + y^2 ?
(1) x + y = 7
(2) x = 2
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easy one, just recognize the perfect square and you're done with (1) alone
yep, (x+y)^2 pattern, classic
wait why isn't (2) enough? if x=2 we still don't know y right?
exactly, y could be anything so x^2+2xy+y^2 changes
thanks, helpful refresher on factoring
ngl took me a sec to see it was (x+y)^2 lol
What it tests
Your ability to manipulate linear and quadratic expressions, substitute unknowns, and solve equations under time pressure.
Common trap
Losing a sign when moving terms across the equals sign, or dividing both sides by a variable that could equal zero.