Test your problem-solving skills: Can you solve this tricky maths puzzle without using a calculator?
A tricky maths brain teaser shared on Facebook challenged users to solve it without a calculator.
Maths has always been a subject that many of us found challenging during school times. It was the subject that either had us groaning in frustration or, for some, reaching for a calculator. However, that’s not the case when it comes to brain teasers that involve a bit of maths. If you're a fan of brain teasers and enjoy a good mental workout, then we have just the treat for you.

(Also read: Brain teaser: Only 2% of people with out-of-the-box thinking can solve this mind-boggling maths puzzle)
A new maths puzzle
A brain teaser has grabbed the internet's attention after being shared on Facebook by the account Minion Quotes. The teaser reads: "Solve this math problem without using a calculator: 40 + 40 - 70 x 0 + 20 + 10 = ?" and ends with the challenge: “No cheating.”
Check out the puzzle here:
Another riddle
This is not the first time that such puzzles have gone viral. Earlier, an equally perplexing brain teaser was shared by Brainy Quiz on X (formerly Twitter), which left many scratching their heads. The teaser, designed for "Only Geniuses," read:
"If 2 = 6, 3 = 12, 4 = 20, 5 = 30, 6 = 42, Then 9 = ? Fail: 98%"
The equation poses a riddle that requires users to think outside the box.
The popularity behind maths brain teasers
Why do these maths brain teasers keep gaining traction? One reason is their ability to challenge both young and old. They push our brains to think critically and engage in problem-solving, all while tapping into the nostalgia of schooldays. The need to figure out a puzzle without external help—such as a calculator—adds an element of fun and competition.
(Also read: Brain teaser: Only those with exceptional attention to detail can count all the fingers in this tricky image)
These teasers not only entertain but also encourage online communities to join in the fun, share their answers, and engage in friendly debates. It’s no wonder that they continue to go viral and keep us hooked.
So, can you crack this 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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