8.4: Multiplying Binomials (FOIL)
When multiplying two binomials (polynomials with two terms), we cannot simply use the distributive property. We need to ensure that each term in one binomial is multiplied by each term in the other binomial. The technique we use to do this is called FOIL. FOIL is a mnemonic that stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last. When we place two binomials next to each other, FOIL reminds us of the order we multiply the terms in.
Read this article, which gives many examples of using the FOIL technique to multiply two binomials. Then, try some practice problems.
Watch this video, which gives another example of using the FOIL technique.