1. The problem is to simplify or work with an expression involving a square root without expanding it. 2. When dealing with square roots, the key rule is to keep the radical form intact unless simplification by factoring is possible. 3. For example, if you have $\sqrt{a^2}$, it simplifies to $|a|$ without expanding. 4. If the expression is $\sqrt{x^2 + 2x + 1}$, recognize it as $\sqrt{(x+1)^2}$ which simplifies to $|x+1|$ without expanding the square root. 5. Always look for perfect squares inside the root to simplify without expanding. 6. This approach keeps the expression simpler and avoids unnecessary complexity.