Intelligence test: You're a problem-solving pro if you crack this confusing maths brain teaser
A tricky brain teaser shared on X puzzled users with a simple-looking equation.
In the ever-scrolling world of social media, where trends come and go in seconds, brain teasers continue to hold a special place. These bite-sized puzzles have a unique way of engaging users—inviting them to pause, think, and challenge their logic in ways that are both entertaining and maddening. Whether it’s a quirky visual illusion or a confusing equation, brain teasers manage to stir up debates, boost curiosity, and create viral buzz. And now, a new maths riddle has surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), leaving even the sharpest minds second-guessing their answers.

(Also read: Brain teaser: If you crack this confusing maths riddle, your IQ level is officially genius-tier)
The puzzle
Shared by user Ganesh UOR, the latest puzzle looks deceptively simple. It reads:
A + A + A = 30, B + B + B = 60, A + B × A = ?
Check out the puzzle here:
While the first two lines seem to set up clear values for A and B, it’s the final equation that throws a curveball. The trick lies in how you approach it—do you treat it like a basic arithmetic problem, or is there a hidden twist that changes the rules?
Earlier puzzle
This isn’t the only maths puzzle to confuse the internet. A previous brain teaser shared by X user @jitendra789789 drew attention with a different kind of numerical oddity:
6 + 9 = 61, 5 + 8 = 46, 4 + 7 = 33, 3 + 6 = ?
(Also read: Vision test: Only those with exceptional observation skills can count every 7 in this image)
It’s not traditional mathematics at play here, but rather a hidden pattern waiting to be decoded. These kinds of puzzles tend to blur the line between maths and lateral thinking, which is precisely why they’re so popular.
The internet's obsession with solving the unsolvable
From classroom chalkboards to trending tweets, brain teasers have come a long way. Their simplicity is what makes them so addictive—you don’t need to be a mathematician to try your hand at solving one. All you need is curiosity and a bit of clever thinking. And when the answer finally clicks, the satisfaction is undeniable.
So, have you solved the equation 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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