Mathematical brain teasers like this one have been gaining popularity online, challenging people to put their arithmetic skills to the test. Unlike crossword puzzles or Sudoku, which rely on word associations and logic patterns, math challenges force us to recall rules we learned in school and apply them correctly. These problems may seem simple at first glance, but they often trip people up due to small details that make a big difference.
If you were in middle or high school, you probably tackled problems like this all the time. But as we grow older, we rely less on mental math and more on calculators and technology to do the work for us. When presented with a basic math equation, many people rush to solve it without thinking through the proper steps, leading to mistakes. That’s exactly why puzzles like these are both fun and frustrating—they make us work our brains in ways we don’t always expect.
Before we reveal the correct solution, try solving this math problem yourself. Take your time, resist the urge to use a calculator, and see if you can get the right answer.
The problem looks simple:
3 + 3 × 3 – 3 + 3
At first, it may seem like a straightforward addition and multiplication problem. However, the key to solving it correctly is remembering the order of operations, which dictates the sequence in which different mathematical operations should be performed.
The Importance of Order of Operations
Many of us learned the PEMDAS rule in school:
- Parentheses first
- Exponents next
- Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
- Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)
This rule helps ensure that calculations are done in the correct order, preventing errors that result from solving equations from left to right without following proper mathematical procedures.
Now, let’s apply this rule to our problem.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- First, identify the multiplication: 3 × 3 = 9
- Rewrite the equation with this result: 3 + 9 – 3 + 3
- Solve from left to right following the order of operations:
- 3 + 9 = 12
- 12 – 3 = 9
- 9 + 3 = 12
The correct answer is 12.
Common Mistakes
One of the biggest reasons people get this problem wrong is that they attempt to solve it from left to right, ignoring the order of operations. If you mistakenly add 3 + 3 first to get 6, then multiply by 3, you’ll end up with an incorrect total. This miscalculation leads many people to choose the wrong answer, which is why math puzzles like this can be so deceptive.
Why These Puzzles Are So Popular
People love math challenges because they test both memory and logical reasoning. Many of us don’t regularly practice solving math problems in our daily lives, so when we encounter a puzzle like this, it forces us to think critically and recall what we once learned in school. This is why these problems often go viral on social media—people enjoy debating their answers, comparing solutions, and proving that they still remember basic math principles.
Beyond entertainment, solving math problems like this is actually good for brain health. Studies show that engaging in problem-solving activities, such as math puzzles, improves cognitive function and helps keep the mind sharp. Just like physical exercise strengthens muscles, mental exercises like these keep the brain active and alert.
The Satisfaction of Getting It Right
If you solved the problem correctly, congratulations! You successfully applied the correct order of operations and arrived at the right answer. If you got it wrong, don’t worry—math problems like these are great learning opportunities. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to recognize patterns and avoid common mistakes.
Now, why not challenge a friend or family member to solve it? These puzzles are even more fun when you compare answers and discuss the reasoning behind your choices. Some people may insist they are right, only to be surprised when they realize their mistake.
Final Thoughts
Math may not be everyone’s favorite subject, but challenges like this remind us why it’s such an important skill. Whether it’s calculating expenses, measuring ingredients for a recipe, or even playing strategic games, math is everywhere in our daily lives. Keeping your arithmetic skills sharp not only helps with practical tasks but also strengthens critical thinking.
So, next time you come across a tricky math problem, take a moment to solve it carefully. Remember to follow the correct order of operations, double-check your work, and enjoy the satisfaction of getting the answer right. And if you ever doubt yourself, just remember—math is all about practice, and the more you engage with it, the better you’ll become.
