Brain teaser: Only the sharpest minds with keen problem-solving skills can crack this maths puzzle
A tricky maths puzzle shared on X challenged users to solve a baffling sequence.
For many of us, maths as a subject in school was confusing, intimidating, and often dreaded. Yet in the world of brain teasers, numbers seem to transform into something far more intriguing—taking on an exciting, even mysterious quality that captures the imagination. A newly shared mathematical puzzle on X (formerly Twitter) is the example of how numbers can fascinate us in the most unexpected ways.

(Also read: Maths test: You’ll be called a puzzle pro if you crack this tricky brain teaser)
The riddle
A puzzling equation shared by X user @jitendra789789 has left users stumped. The post reads:
"1+5 = 12, 2+10 = 24, 3+15 = 36, 4+25 = ?"
Check out the puzzle here:
At first glance, the sequence seems to defy the basic principles of arithmetic. But fans of brain teasers know: the key to solving these isn't always found in straightforward maths. The trick lies in uncovering the hidden logic or pattern that connects each line.
(Also read: Only those with exceptional logic can crack this mind-bending brain teaser that’s baffled the internet)
Not the first puzzle
This isn’t the only maths teaser that has left users scratching their heads in collective confusion. A separate post from the X (formerly Twitter) account "Brainy Quiz" also captured attention with a problem that appeared deceptively simple at first glance:
"Math Test: 9 + 5 × 0 ÷ 3 = ?"
At first glance, it appears straightforward. However, as with many brain teasers, the trick lies in understanding the rules rather than relying on instinct. These puzzles test more than just your ability to calculate—they challenge you to apply logical reasoning, follow mathematical order of operations, and stay alert for hidden pitfalls.
Why we love a good puzzle
So, why do maths brain teasers captivate us so much? It’s not just about numbers or calculations. These puzzles engage our curiosity and challenge our way of thinking, encouraging us to look beyond the obvious and find creative solutions. There’s a unique satisfaction in spotting patterns, decoding riddles, and arriving at the answer after some mental effort. For many, it’s a fun and rewarding way to keep the mind sharp, offering a brief escape from daily routines. Plus, sharing these puzzles with friends or online communities adds a social element, turning problem-solving into a collective experience.
So have you managed to solve the puzzle yet?
ABOUT THE AUTHORMahipal Singh ChouhanMahipal 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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