It looks easy… but can you crack the code in 45 seconds?

Have a moment to spare? Let’s see if you can solve a brainteaser that’s been quietly puzzling people across the internet.

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary math equation—but there’s a twist.

It's the kind of riddle that makes you pause, scratch your head, and say, “Wait, what?”


Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or winding down for the evening, this little mental challenge is a fun way to keep your mind active.

And don't worry—it doesn’t take a math whiz to crack it!

All it takes is a sharp eye, a little creativity, and maybe a touch of patience.


Screenshot 2025-04-13 at 9.26.03 PM.png
This quirky equation has puzzled thousands—can you spot the hidden pattern? Image Source: The GrayVine.


The puzzle that’s stumping thousands

Here’s the quirky equation that has many folks doing a double-take:

11 x 11 = 4
30 x 20 = 5
15 x 10 = 7
24 x 13 = ?

At first, you might be tempted to rely on good old-fashioned multiplication—but this puzzle plays by different rules.

The trick lies in noticing the hidden pattern, not in crunching numbers the usual way.


Also read: Think you're smarter than a 5-year-old? This kindergarten homework puzzle has stumped PhDs!

It’s not about multiplication—here’s the real trick

Let’s look at what’s really going on:
  • 11 x 11 = 4 → 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 4
  • 30 x 20 = 5 → 3 + 0 + 2 + 0 = 5
  • 15 x 10 = 7 → 1 + 5 + 1 + 0 = 7

The “answer” is the sum of the digits, not the product!


Also read: Are you smarter than the internet? Try solving this math puzzle that's baffling everyone online!

Now that you’ve got the hang of it, here’s your challenge:


Screenshot 2025-04-13 at 9.27.41 PM.png
Here's the twist hiding in plain sight. Image Source: The GrayVine.


The answer is 10!

Also read: It looks easy… until it isn’t. This math riddle is breaking brains

Why try puzzles like this?

Keeping your brain engaged is just as important as staying physically active.

Little challenges like these aren't just entertaining—they're great exercises for keeping your mind sharp and focused.

And let’s be honest, there's a certain joy in figuring it out before anyone else does.

Now that you know the trick, pass it on! Share it at your next gathering or post it on social media to see who else can solve it without giving away the secret!


Source: YouTube / Fun Quiz Question.​


Read next: Transform your finances with this simple 75/15/10 rule—find out how to budget smarter now!

Key Takeaways

  • A math puzzle that appears simple has been circulating the internet, challenging individuals to spot the underlying pattern.
  • Traditional mathematical methods do not apply to the equations in the puzzle, which require a different approach.
  • The trick to solving the puzzle is to break down the numbers into individual digits and sum them up.

How long did it take you to crack the code? Did you figure it out right away—or did it take a second look? We’d love to hear how you did. Drop your thoughts, guesses, or favorite puzzles in the comments below. Let’s keep the brain games going!
 
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