1. **Problem statement:** Find the value of the expression $3^2$. 2. **Formula and rules:** The expression $3^2$ means $3$ raised to the power of $2$, which is the same as multiplying $3$ by itself. 3. **Intermediate work:** $$3^2 = 3 \times 3$$ 4. **Calculation:** $$3 \times 3 = 9$$ 5. **Answer:** The value of $3^2$ is 9. Note: The options given are 5, 6, 8, 7, none of which is 9, so the correct value is 9, which is not listed among the options.