
Challenge: Can you solve this math problem for middle schoolers – without a calculator?
Classic brain training methods are perhaps puzzles like crosswords or sudoku, but I have recently become more attracted to the type of challenge you’ll see below.
These puzzles have been flooding the web lately, probably because they are really fun!
These are old classic mathematical problems. When you were in middle or high school.
These math problems are more fun when you find yourself trying to remember the math you learned as a child.
Can you figure out the correct solution?
Here is the challenge, in the picture below.

At the top of the picture, we see the task and then four possible answers.
Which solution do you think is the correct one?
How did you come up with it?
Take your time and think about it to find the correct solution.
Done? Below you can check if you picked the right number!
A
B
C

The correct answer
The correct answer is B: 12.
Why is 12 the correct answer?
Well, if you remember from your school days, according to the order of operations, you do multiplication before addition and subtraction, so you start by solving 3 x 3, which results in 9.
Then we are left with a simpler math problem: 3 + 9 – 3 + 3
The answer is therefore 12.
Did you pick the correct number? Congratulations!
Are You Sure You’re Observant? Prove It by Finding the Hidden Panda!

Not everyone likes to brag about their keen observational powers. After all, some of us are so easily distracted that finding a pencil we had just a second ago feels like a Herculean task. And don’t even get me started on the keys that magically disappear in our pockets! But enough about our frequent misadventures. Let’s see if you’ve got what it takes to spot a hidden gem in a sea of sameness. Ready to awaken your inner Sherlock?
Alright, here’s the deal. Hidden within this horde of raccoons is a sneaky little panda. Yes, you read that right—a PANDA! Sounds easy, right? But don’t get too cocky just yet.

So, here’s your mission, should you choose to accept it: Find the panda in just 7 seconds. Think you can handle it? On your mark, get set, GO!
Start the timer…NOW!
Glance at every detail. Scan those raccoons. Don’t let your eyes deceive you.
Found it yet?
The clock’s ticking. Faster!
Almost there? Or are you drawing a blank?
Okay, time’s up!
Stop right there—no more peeking!
Congratulations if you managed to spot the panda. And if not, no worries; you’re in good company. Let’s finally reveal the hidden panda because let’s face it, waiting is excruciating.

There it is! Found it hiding in plain sight, didn’t it? So, what’s the verdict? Whether you nailed it or came close, this playful challenge is a great way to sharpen your observational skills. Just remember, in life, just like in this puzzle, the devil is in the details!
Leave a Reply