ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Methods of computing square roots

Computing the square root of a number means finding out what number you need to multiply by itself to get the number you started with. For example, the square root of 16 is 4 because 4 multiplied by itself is 16. To compute the square root of a number, there are two main methods: Using a calculator, or doing a square root algorithm.

Using a calculator is an easy way to get the square root of a number. All you have to do is type the number into the calculator and then press the square root button. The calculator will then show you the answer.

Doing a square root algorithm is a little more complicated, but it’s a way of doing the square root without a calculator. It involves a few steps, like guessing the answer, then checking it and adjusting it until you get the right answer. It may take a few tries, but eventually you’ll get the correct answer.