1. The problem is to simplify the expression $-i^2$. 2. Recall that $i$ is the imaginary unit defined by the property $i^2 = -1$. 3. Substitute $i^2$ with $-1$ in the expression: $$-i^2 = -(-1)$$ 4. Simplify the double negative: $$-(-1) = 1$$ 5. Therefore, the simplified value of $-i^2$ is $1$.