1. **State the problem:** Simplify the expression $t^2$ or understand its meaning. 2. **Explanation:** The expression $t^2$ means $t$ multiplied by itself, i.e., $t \times t$. 3. **Formula:** For any variable $x$, $x^2 = x \times x$. 4. **Intermediate work:** There is no further simplification unless a value for $t$ is given. 5. **Conclusion:** The expression $t^2$ is already in its simplest form and represents the square of $t$.