Asquare measuring 9 inches by 9 inches is cut from a corner of a square measuring 15 inches by 15 inches. what is the area of the l shaped figure that is formed?

First, find the area of each figure. Then subtract the smaller area from the larger area. Your work should look something like this:

A = l * w
A = 9 * 9
A = 81

This is the area of the smaller square. Now find the area of the larger square. 
A = l * w
A = 15 * 15
A = 225

Now subtract the two areas to find the area of the shape that is left when the smaller square is cut out. 

225 - 81 = 144 

Your final answer should be:
144 in^2