A simpler problem that Jeremy might consider to help him solve the more complex problem of finding the total number of rectangles in a given figure is to first focus on finding the number of rectangles in a smaller, simpler grid. For example, if the original figure is a larger grid of squares or rectangles (say an $m \times n$ grid), Jeremy can:

Suggested Simpler Problem:

1. Consider a smaller $2 \times 2$ or $3 \times 3$ grid: Jeremy can first find the number of rectangles in a smaller $2 \times 2$ grid or a $3 \times 3$ grid and identify a pattern or a formula for counting rectangles. This will simplify the process and help him build intuition for the general problem.

Once he solves the simpler problem, Jeremy can use this solution as a building block to generalize and count the total number of rectangles in the original figure.

Would you like any further details or explanations?

Related Questions:

1. How many rectangles can be found in a $2 \times 2$ grid?
2. What is the general formula for counting rectangles in an $m \times n$ grid?
3. Can this simpler problem approach be used to find the number of squares in a grid as well?
4. How can Jeremy use symmetry properties to simplify the counting of rectangles?
5. Are there any combinatorial techniques that might help in counting rectangles systematically?

Tip:

When solving a counting problem involving geometric shapes, breaking down the figure into smaller parts or using systematic enumeration can often reveal patterns that lead to efficient solutions.