Welcome to another challenging matchstick puzzle! These puzzles are perfect for testing your logical reasoning and attention to detail. The rules are simple: you’ll be given an equation with matchsticks, and your goal is to move just one matchstick to make the equation correct. Sounds easy? Well, it’s not always as simple as it seems. Are you ready to dive into this one?
The Incorrect Equation
Here’s the equation you need to solve:
93 = 7 – 28 – 2
At first glance, this equation seems reasonable, but it’s clear that something’s off. If you follow the standard order of operations, you’ll quickly find that the equation doesn’t add up:
93 = 7 – 28 – 2
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Let’s break this down:
7 – 28 = -21
-21 – 2 = -23
So, clearly, 93 is not equal to -23, which means the equation is incorrect. But how do we fix this with just one move? Let’s figure it out.
Step-by-Step Process: Finding the Right Move
The challenge here is to correct the equation by moving only one matchstick. This isn’t a simple task; you have to think critically about how the matchsticks are positioned and how moving just one could correct the entire equation. But don’t worry—let’s work through it together!
First, let’s take a look at the equation again:
93 = 7 – 28 – 2
As mentioned earlier, the equation doesn’t add up. The answer is clearly not 93 on the left-hand side. The puzzle requires a small but crucial change. This change lies in the positioning of the matchsticks, and it’s all about shifting one matchstick in the right place.
So, where should we move the matchstick?
Let’s think about the matchstick arrangement for the numbers. The key move will involve the number “9” on the left side of the equation.
Now, let’s move to the next step: think about the placement of the minus sign and how it can be adjusted.
Common Mistakes in Matchstick Puzzles
Before we reveal the solution, let’s talk about a few common mistakes people make when attempting matchstick puzzles:
1. Moving More Than One Matchstick: In most puzzles, you can only move one matchstick. People often think they can move more than one, but in this type of puzzle, that’s not the case. The challenge is to solve it with a single move.
2. Overcomplicating the Problem: It’s easy to overthink these puzzles. The solution is often simpler than it seems. Take a step back, relax, and think about how one small change could make a big difference.
3. Ignoring the Symbols: It’s not just the numbers that matter. The symbols (+, -, =) play a huge role. Sometimes, changing a single symbol can be the key to solving the equation correctly.
With these tips in mind, let’s dive back into the puzzle.
Take Another Look: Can You Find the Right Move?
Look at the equation one last time before we reveal the answer:
93 = 7 – 28 – 2
Can you figure out where to move the matchstick to make this equation correct? Think carefully, and don’t rush!
The Solution: The Corrected Equation
Here’s the solution:
To correct the equation, you need to remove the left vertical matchstick from the first 9. Then, place it vertically below the first minus sign. This transforms the 9 into a 3, and the minus sign into an equals sign.
This changes the equation to:
33 = 7 + 28 – 2
Now, if we evaluate this equation:
7 + 28 = 35
35 – 2 = 33
So the equation is now balanced, and the solution has been found!
Conclusion: The Power of One Small Move
It’s amazing how one small change can make all the difference. By moving just one matchstick, we transformed an incorrect equation into a correct one. Matchstick puzzles are a fun and engaging way to exercise your brain and improve your problem-solving skills.
Did you manage to solve it on your own? If so, congratulations! If not, don’t worry. These puzzles can be tricky, but they’re great for sharpening your mind. Try sharing it with a friend and see if they can solve it faster than you!
