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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
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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. His work primarily focuses on offbeat and trending stories that reflect everyday experiences and evolving conversations on the internet. He has consistently worked on transforming viral content and human interest stories into structured news pieces that engage readers while maintaining editorial clarity. At Hindustan Times, Mahipal contributes to identifying and developing stories emerging from social media trends, online communities, and real-world incidents that capture public attention. His approach involves adding context and journalistic perspective to fast-moving digital narratives, helping present viral moments in a clear and reader-friendly format suited for digital audiences. Before joining Hindustan Times Digital, he was associated with DNA India, where he gained experience in newsroom workflows and digital storytelling practices. Mahipal holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, Delhi. He is particularly interested in tracking emerging trends and understanding how online conversations evolve into broader public discussions. His work reflects a focus on accuracy, readability, and relevance in the rapidly changing digital news environment. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Mahipal takes an interest in history and sports and regularly works on improving his general knowledge, which complements his curiosity as a media professional.Read More

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