Matchstick puzzles are a fun and challenging way to test your logical thinking and attention to detail. They require you to manipulate numbers and symbols to create a correct equation using only one move. In this puzzle, you’ll need to find the single matchstick that can transform an incorrect equation into a correct one.
The Puzzle: An Incorrect Equation
Here is the equation you need to fix:
73 – 7 – 6 = 12
If we do the math as it stands:
73 – 7 = 66
66 – 6 = 60
60 is definitely not equal to 12! Clearly, something is wrong.
The Challenge: Fix the Equation in One Move
Your goal is to fix this equation by moving just one matchstick. That means no adding extra matchsticks, no removing them—just one simple shift. The solution might be hiding in plain sight.
Examine the numbers and the mathematical symbols carefully. Does a small change to one of them result in a valid equation?
Common Mistakes in Matchstick Puzzles
Before revealing the solution, here are some common pitfalls people encounter when solving matchstick puzzles:
1. Moving More Than One Matchstick: The challenge allows for only one move. If you find yourself trying multiple moves, you might be overcomplicating it.
2. Ignoring Mathematical Symbols: Many people focus on the numbers, but sometimes, the key lies in adjusting a minus, plus, or equal sign.
3. Overthinking the Solution: The simplest changes can often lead to the right answer. If your solution feels too complicated, take a step back and look at the equation from a different angle.
Final Check: Can You Spot the Solution?
Before you scroll down to see the answer, take another careful look at the equation. Can you figure out which matchstick needs to be moved?
The Solution: The Corrected Equation
The trick is to modify both a number and an operator. By removing the horizontal matchstick from the number 7 and placing it vertically on top of the first minus sign, two key transformations occur:
1. The 7 becomes a 1.
2. The minus sign (-) becomes a plus sign (+).
This changes the equation to:
13 – 7 + 6 = 12
Conclusion: A Simple Move, A Big Difference
With just one small adjustment, we have turned an incorrect equation into a correct one. This puzzle is a great exercise in attention to detail and logical reasoning.
Did you manage to solve it on your own? If so, well done! If not, don’t worry—these puzzles are meant to challenge even the best problem-solvers. Try sharing this with a friend and see if they can figure it out faster than you did!
