Squaring a 2-digit number ending in 4

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Squaring a 2-digit number ending in 4 *

  1. Take a 2-digit number ending in 4.
  2. Square the 4; the last digit is 6: _ _ _ 6. (Keep carry, 1.)
  3. Multiply the first digit by 8 and add the carry (1); the 2nd number will be
    the next to the last digit: _ _ X 6. (Keep carry.)
  4. Square the first digit and add the carry: X X _ _.
* From the BEATCALC mailing list.

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14 January 1996