The expression $4^2 + 2$ can be simplified as follows:

1. First, calculate $4^2$, which means $4 \times 4 = 16$.
2. Then, add 2:
   $16 + 2 = 18$

So, the result is $18$.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this concept:

1. What is the value of $5^2 + 3$?
2. How would you simplify $3^2 + 6$?
3. Can you calculate $2^3 + 5$?
4. What is $6^2 - 4$?
5. What happens when you evaluate $10^2 + 7$?

Tip: When dealing with exponents, remember that they must be evaluated before any addition or subtraction due to the order of operations (PEMDAS).