1. **State the problem:** Solve for $k$ given the equation $k^2 = 0.49$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To solve for $k$, take the square root of both sides. Remember, when taking the square root of both sides of an equation, consider both the positive and negative roots. 3. **Apply the square root:** $$k = \pm \sqrt{0.49}$$ 4. **Calculate the square root:** $$\sqrt{0.49} = 0.7$$ 5. **Final solution:** $$k = \pm 0.7$$ This means $k$ can be either $0.7$ or $-0.7$.