I want to make a finished 5 inch square block.

One square is 5 inch so do I cut if 5 1/2" by 5 1/2"?

The other square is a combination of 4 squares equaling a 5" finished block. Should this be but at 3" by 3"?

Sorry I know it is simple question, but I get confused.

I sure understand the confusion and I am not good at math. Hopefully someone will answer the question for both of us.
JOY

Yes, if you want a 5" finished block and you are sewing with a 1/4" seam allowance, you cut the beginning square 5 1/2" x 5 1/2".

If you want a 5" finished square (5 1/2" unfinished size) that is made up of 4 smaller squares, you cut the beginning squares at 3" x 3".