Tips&TricksElementary math puzzle stumps adults: Discover the power of simple calculations

Elementary math puzzle stumps adults: Discover the power of simple calculations

This puzzle is simple.
This puzzle is simple.
Images source: © Canva
6:41 PM EST, December 16, 2023

If you've convinced yourself to take on this mathematical challenge, arm yourself with a sheet of paper and a pen. Writing down the entire operation can make the task seem simple. Apart from basic stationery, you'll need a good understanding of mathematical rules, which are like game rules, helping you navigate the twist and turns of calculations successfully. Are you ready?

Solving the puzzle: the process

Puzzles, tasks, and riddles have been known to positively influence our brain. They train our brain, improve our memory, and sharpen our intellect. It's worth mentioning that today's mathematical puzzle is a typical equation from elementary school. Such tasks are common in tests, and school children tend to solve them effortlessly.

So, why do adults often struggle to find the right answers? With time, our knowledge diminishes, especially if we do not use it regularly or if we are engaged in a completely different field. Additionally, few of us have the luxury of leisure time to engage with puzzles. After a full day, we typically prefer to relax rather than stress ourselves with riddles. But remember, dedicating just a few minutes every day to problem-solving activities like these can be quite beneficial.

Are you ready to start?

You should begin your calculations with operations that take precedence. These are defined by the standard mathematical rules we learned during our early education. Following these rules can prevent unnecessary calculations and save you from unnecessary stress. Do note that getting irritated over a mathematical equation only complicates matters, it's never helpful. Where should we start solving the puzzle?

If you're considering starting with the bracket, you're on the right track. But within the bracket, divide 12 by 4 and add the result to 1. With this, half of the task is already complete, and these simple calculations should not pose any significant trouble for you. After the division, the puzzle becomes 15 - 1 (3 + 1). Does this make things easier for you now?

Now, you may be wondering about the symbol between 1 and the bracket. It signifies division. Therefore, the task should be written as follows: 15 - 1 x 4. With this idea in mind, the next steps in the calculation become clear. The correct result, 11, can be obtained directly because 1 x 4 equals 4. Did you get the same answer?

Riddles are a test of logical thinking, which pays off.
Riddles are a test of logical thinking, which pays off.© Freepik
Related content