Confused on what they want me to do

[Zoro.]

Thanks for helping out a newbie.

How do I know how far to solve a problem to get the answer they are looking for?
Examples:

1
If I have 3^5/3^2 and it says to divide and simplify
The answer is 3^3 (not 27)

2
Now it just says simplify
(3x^2)^3(-2x5)^3
Answer is -216x^21

(why not) leave it at 27x^6 -8x^15

Why am I supposed to leave example one 3^3 and not 27
and completely solve example 2?

Thanks

 

[stapel]

Thanks for helping out a newbie.

How do I know how far to solve a problem to get the answer they are looking for?

Generally, the instructions will specify. For instance, if they want things left in exponential form (rather than simplified, if the value is strictly numerical), they should so state.

Examples:

1)
If I have 3^5/3^2 and it says to divide and simplify
The answer is 3^3 (not 27)

Personally, unless the instructions stated to leave things in exponential form, I would be expecting "27". But your instructor may differ.

2) Now it just says simplify
(3x^2)^3(-2x5)^3
Answer is -216x^21

(why not) leave it at (27x^6)(-8x^15)

Because there is still combining that you can do. The expression can be further simplified.