math equations on a chalkboard
Mayukh Saha
Mayukh Saha
December 6, 2021 ·  3 min read

Can You Solve This Math Equation Meant For Kids In Middle School?

For a lot of us, middle school seems like such a long time ago, when we had to keep practicing equations and memorizing new stuff. How much of that do we remember now? It might be because we do not use it that much, or that it was too simple and now we have moved on to more complex stuff. But, back then, there were some equations that left us stumped, and we had to ask our seniors to show us the way.

As such, this equation will be a great chance to see how much you remember equations like that. Regardless of what type of brainteaser you encounter, the important thing is exercising the brain cells. So what if it is a math equation meant for kids? Remembering past information is a great way of keeping your mind on point.

Challenge Of A Math Equation

It doesn’t have to be a very complicated math equation to get your brain working. Even stereotypical crosswords involve some kind of math in them. But, when you think of a math-based puzzle, the most common one is undoubtedly Sudoku.

If that isn’t enough, there are also several tests available online that can help in taking your brain to the gym for some time.

Today’s math equation is not advanced at all. Rather, it is a simple math equation that you can find at any middle school. But there’s a catch. Equations like these cannot be solved unless you know or remember the process of solving them. Rest assured, the process is just as easy as it was back then, but can you recall it?

See If You Can Solve The Question

The challenge for today will be shown to you via a picture. Before you see it, here are the rules and what you need to do:

The picture will show a series of numbers, with the last number replaced by a question mark. The challenge for you will be to find out the number that should sit in place of that question mark, as quickly as possible. Ready? Scroll down to see the picture:

Can you find the answer to this equation?

Do you think you can solve the math equation? At first glance, it might not seem easy. But rest assured, if you give it some time, you will figure it out.

If you want to check the answer, then scroll down.

What Is The Answer?

If you want to check if your answer is correct, or if you are yet to get it, then the answer will be right below.

Image Credits: Pixabay

The answer to the equation is … 3.

But why? Well, the series of numbers is based on the difference between each consecutive pair. So, for example, the difference between 18 and 10 is 8. Then, the difference between 10 and 6 is 4. At last, the difference between 6 and 4 is 2. So the difference between each consecutive number gets halved in each step: 8, then 4, then 2.

So the last difference should be the half of 2 that is 1. The only number that is lower than 4 and at a difference of 1 is 3. So the answer is 3!

Did you get it? If you did, how fast were you able to do it?

If you like that, then here are some more great brain teasers and puzzles for you to work on: