Dear Liam,


You raised a very good question. I like how you looked for a shortcut and actually there is one, but it hasn't been included in a lesson. Notice that
1 + 3 = 4 = 2 x 2
1 + 3 + 5 = 9 = 3 x 3
1 + 3 + 5 + 7 = 16 = 4 x 4


Just think about the pattern and you will have your answer. Thanks for writing.


Joan A. Cotter, Ph.D.

I do see the pattern that you started. That's a really cool shortcut!

Thanks a lot.

Liam