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Brain teaser: Can you solve this simple maths equation that’s stumping the internet?

A maths brain teaser puzzled users with a simple-looking equation, sparking hundreds of comments.

Published on: Jul 18, 2025, 14:20:00 IST
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If you’re someone who enjoys giving your brain a workout with puzzles and riddles, a new brain teaser might just be your next challenge. Shared by a Facebook user named Arshdeep Soni, the teaser claims to stump 94% of those who attempt it and it’s easy to see why.

A maths brain teaser confused users online as hundreds debated the correct answer. (Facebook/Arshdeep Soni)
A maths brain teaser confused users online as hundreds debated the correct answer. (Facebook/Arshdeep Soni)

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The puzzle reads:

“Only 6% of people can solve…

6 + 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 + 6, + 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 + 6, + 6 + 6 × 0 + 6 = ?”

While it might look straightforward at first glance, many online users were left scratching their heads, debating the correct order of operations and how the multiplication affects the sum.

Check out the puzzle here:

Hundreds of comments, one question

The teaser has gathered more than 200 comments on Facebook, with users sharing their answers and defending their logic. Some argued the solution should be based on the traditional BODMAS, while others went with a left-to-right approach.

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One user confidently wrote, “The answer is clearly 84. People are just ignoring the multiplication.” Another disagreed, saying, “Nope, it’s 90. You’re overthinking it. Just add everything!”

A third chimed in, “It’s a trick question. The ‘× 0’ cancels out just one 6, not the whole equation.” Meanwhile, another comment read, “People really need to go back to school. PEMDAS exists for a reason.”

These teasers continue to gain traction for their ability to both entertain and confuse, all while sparking debates online. Whether you cracked it or are still furiously scribbling on paper, it’s clear that such puzzles aren’t just about numbers — they’re about how we think.

So, what’s your final answer?

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mahipal Singh Chouhan

Mahipal Singh Chouhan is a Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times Digital, with nearly five years of experience in digital journalism and content production. He primarily covers offbeat, trending and human-interest stories, with a focus on emerging social media trends, online conversations and real-world incidents that capture public attention. At Hindustan Times, Mahipal works on identifying and developing fast-moving digital stories, adding context and journalistic perspective to viral moments while maintaining accuracy, clarity and readability for online audiences. Before joining Hindustan Times Digital, he was associated with DNA India, where he gained experience in newsroom workflows and digital storytelling. He holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, Delhi. Beyond journalism, he has a keen interest in history and sports and enjoys expanding his general knowledge.

Discover the latest Trending News, viral videos, social media stories and unusual events from India and around the world. Stay updated with the topics everyone is talking about.
Discover the latest Trending News, viral videos, social media stories and unusual events from India and around the world. Stay updated with the topics everyone is talking about.
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