2. Determine the area of each complex figure.

To find the area of complex figures, it's often helpful to break them down into simpler shapes. For instance, a figure that combines rectangles, triangles, and circles can be decomposed into those individual shapes. Calculate the area of each segment using the appropriate formulas (length x width for rectangles, 1/2 base x height for triangles, and πr² for circles) and then sum the areas for the total. Remember to subtract any overlapping areas, if necessary! When approaching complex figures, a common mistake is forgetting to apply the right units for area, particularly when combining different shapes. Always ensure your measurements are converted to the same units before calculation. Additionally, double-check the integrity of your shapes; a miscalculation in one small area can skew the total result significantly!