Sign in

Brain teaser: Only 2% of people with out-of-the-box thinking can solve this mind-boggling maths puzzle

A tricky maths brain teaser shared on X puzzled users with a number pattern.

Published on: May 2, 2025, 14:41:35 IST
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
Copy link
  • copy link

Brain teasers are a fun and fascinating way to challenge our minds, testing our problem-solving skills and keeping our brains sharp. Maths brain teasers, in particular, are a favourite for many, offering an engaging way to test numerical thinking. But sometimes, these puzzles can be tricky enough to leave even the most logical minds stumped. If you’re a fan of maths brain teasers, then the latest puzzle shared on X (formerly Twitter) is sure to leave you scratching your head.

A maths brain teaser puzzled the internet with tricky number patterns. (X/@brainyquiz_)
A maths brain teaser puzzled the internet with tricky number patterns. (X/@brainyquiz_)

(Also read: IQ test: You're a genius-level problem-solver if you can crack this tricky number puzzle)

The puzzle

Shared by the account Brainy Quiz, the teaser reads:

"Only Geniuses, if 2 = 6, 3 = 12, 4 = 20, 5 = 30, 6 = 42, Then 9 = ?, Fail: 98%"

Check out the puzzle here:

At first glance, it may seem simple enough. But as soon as you start trying to figure it out, the real challenge begins. This puzzle plays with numerical patterns in a way that tricks your brain into overthinking, which is exactly what makes it so intriguing.

Earlier riddle leaves the internet confused

This is not the first time the internet has been left puzzled by a maths riddle. Earlier, another brain teaser shared by X user Ganesh UOR got people talking, with many struggling to figure it out. The puzzle was as follows:

"IQ Test: 1+4=5, 2+5=12, 3+6=21, 8+11=?"

Similar to the current puzzle, the riddle seems straightforward at first. However, as people began to solve it, they realised that there’s more to it than meets the eye. Like most good brain teasers, it had people thinking outside the box, challenging their logic and testing their ability to identify hidden patterns.

The internet’s fascination with brain teasers

The internet’s love for brain teasers is undeniable. From simple riddles to complex maths puzzles, these challenges provide a great way to engage with a community of puzzle enthusiasts. Whether it's solving them for fun or posting them online to challenge others, these teasers spark curiosity and ignite the competitive spirit.

So, can you crack the puzzle? Look closely, try different angles, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll be among the 2% who succeed.

  • Mahipal Singh Chouhan
    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.Read More

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.