Challenge: Can you figure out this middle school arithmetic problem without using a calculator?
Puzzles like sudoku or crosswords are probably considered classic brain training techniques, but lately, I’ve been more interested in the challenge you’ll find below.
Probably because they are so much fun, these puzzles are all over the internet lately!
These are old, traditional math problems. Whenn you were in high school or college.
When you try to recall the math you learned as a child, these tasks become more enjoyable.
Can you identify the correct answer?
The task is shown in the image below.
The task and the four possible answers are shown at the top of the image.
What do you think is the correct answer?
How did you figure that out?
To find the right answer, take your time and think about it.
Done? Check below to make sure you picked the right number!
Correct answer
The correct answer is B: 12.
Why is the number twelve the correct answer?
As you may remember from your school days, multiplication precedes addition and subtraction in the order of operations. Therefore, start by solving 3 × 3, which gives 9.
Next, we have a more straightforward math problem: 3+9-3+3
Therefore the answer is 12.
Did you choose the correct number?
Well done!
In conclusion, this puzzle offers a fun and nostalgic way to revisit basic arithmetic concepts. It challenges us to apply the order of operations, a skill we learn in school, to solve the problem exactly. Many may rush the calculation or get distracted by the sequence of numbers, but taking the time to follow the correct steps leads to the correct answer.
The order of operations, which favors multiplication over addition or subtraction, is essential here. Once we multiply 3 × 3, we simplify the expression step by step to arrive at the final solution of 12. This puzzle not only tests our math skills but also reminds us how simple principles can lead to satisfying results. If you got it right, congratulations! You’ve dusted off your high school math and solved a tricky problem.