Maths test: You’ll be called a puzzle pro if you crack this tricky brain teaser
A brain teaser shared on X challenged users with a tricky maths problem.
In a world overflowing with viral videos and trending memes, brain teasers have quietly carved out a devoted fanbase online—particularly those involving maths. With their mix of logic, pattern recognition and problem-solving, these puzzles offer a refreshing break from the usual internet scroll. They challenge the mind, spark debate, and often lead to surprisingly intense discussions in comment sections. And if you’re someone who enjoys putting their thinking cap on, especially for a good maths riddle, then you’re in for a treat.

(Also read: Think you’re a brain teaser champ? Crack this mind-bending maths puzzle to prove it)
The puzzle
A new brain teaser is making the rounds on social media, and it has perplexed internet users. Shared by the X (formerly Twitter) account Brainy Quiz, the puzzle reads:
"Math Test: 9 + 5 × 0 ÷ 3 = ?"
Check out the puzzle here:
At first glance, it might seem like a trick question or even too simple to warrant a second look. But, as with most great brain teasers, the challenge lies in the detail — or, in this case, in the order of operations.
Another viral puzzle
Before this, a similarly engaging puzzle did the rounds on Facebook, shared by a page called Maths Tricks. Though it also appears deceptively easy, it sparked debate in the comments. The teaser stated:
"111 = 21, 222 = 44, 223 = 46, 334 = ?"
These types of puzzles are clever in their simplicity. They rely not just on arithmetic, but on spotting patterns, thinking laterally, and sometimes making intuitive leaps that don't always follow conventional rules.
(Also read: ‘Only for geniuses’: Can you solve this brain teaser in less than one minute?)
The internet’s obsession with numbers and patterns
Whether you're a seasoned mathematician or someone who just loves a good challenge, maths brain teasers tap into something universal — the satisfaction of solving a riddle. The rise of such puzzles online highlights how numbers, logic, and a dash of creativity can bring people together in conversation, debate, and friendly competition.
Social media platforms are full of these mini maths mysteries, sparking many comments as users try to outsmart one another — or simply prove they remember their school maths lessons.
So, have you cracked 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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