Cracking the Puzzle: Unveiling the Method Behind the Viral Math Challenge | April 26, 2025

Many people are baffled by a perplexing arithmetic problem that has been making the rounds on social media lately. The task consists of a sequence of arithmetic problems that appear straightforward but have a peculiar twist. Usually, the graphic says:

The pattern concealed behind the numbers is more fascinating than the actual mathematical procedures. The equations appear to violate standard arithmetic norms. A closer examination, however, exposes a deft pattern that, when recognized, makes the challenge easily solved. Let’s examine the reasoning and provide the solution to this conundrum.

Comprehensive Dissection

Understanding that the equations follow a cumulative pattern rather than simple addition is the key to solving this puzzle. Here’s how to deconstruct it:

The first equation is 1 + 4 = 5.
At first glance, this equation appears simple because 1 + 4 does, in fact, equal 5. It does, however, lay the groundwork for the cumulative pattern.
Equation two: 2 + 5 = 12
Remember that 2 + 5 = 7 to grasp this. Nevertheless, the solution given is 12, which is 7 times the outcome of equation (5).
Thus, 7 (2 + 5) + 5 (the earlier outcome) = 12.
Equation Three plus Six equals 21.
In the same way, 3 + 6 = 9. We obtain 21 by adding this to the earlier result (12).
Thus, 12 (the prior result) plus 9 (3 + 6) = 21.
Utilizing the Pattern

Let’s apply the pattern to the last equation now that it is evident:

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