Do you love brain teasers that make you think outside the box? Here’s a puzzle that has left many people scratching their heads. The question is simple—what number is missing in the pattern? While it might seem tricky at first, once you uncover the hidden logic, the answer becomes clear.

Before you scroll down to see the solution, take a moment to analyze the numbers. Pay close attention to patterns, mathematical relationships, and possible rules governing the sequence. Can you figure it out? Let’s break it down step by step.

Common Mistakes People Make When Solving Puzzles

Puzzles like this one often seem more complicated than they actually are. Many people rush to find an answer without carefully analyzing how the numbers are related. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring simple arithmetic relationships – Sometimes, the solution is as easy as basic multiplication or division.
• Overcomplicating the problem – People often try complex mathematical operations when the real solution is straightforward.
• Not considering multiple solutions – Some puzzles have more than one correct answer, depending on the pattern you recognize.

By keeping these points in mind, you can improve your problem-solving skills and avoid unnecessary confusion.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Puzzle

Video: 25 MATH RIDDLES TO BOOST YOUR BRAIN POWER

Now, let’s take a closer look at the puzzle and find the missing number using logical steps.

1. Identify the given numbers and their relationships
   • First sector: 8 × 3 = 24
   • Second sector: 5 × 3 = 15
   • Third sector: 12 ÷ 3 = 4
2. Look for a consistent pattern
   • The first two sectors use multiplication, where each number is multiplied by 3.
   • The third sector, however, applies division instead of multiplication.
3. Determine the missing number
   • If we follow the division pattern, then the missing number must be 4 (since 12 ÷ 3 = 4).
   • However, if we follow the multiplication pattern, then 12 × 3 = 36, which would make 36 another possible answer.

The Two Possible Answers

This puzzle is unique because it presents two valid solutions, depending on the rule you apply:

• Solution 1: The missing number is 4, if we assume the pattern follows division (12 ÷ 3).
• Solution 2: The missing number is 36, if the pattern uses multiplication (12 × 3).

Both answers make logical sense depending on how you interpret the sequence.

Why Brain Teasers Like This Are Great for Mental Sharpness

Solving puzzles isn’t just fun—it also helps boost brain function. Challenges like this improve:

• Logical thinking – By recognizing patterns, your brain becomes better at problem-solving.
• Attention to detail – Observing small details is key to arriving at the right answer.
• Cognitive flexibility – Finding multiple solutions encourages adaptability and creative thinking.

Final Thoughts: Can You Spot Both Answers?

This puzzle serves as a great reminder that sometimes, problems can have more than one correct answer. Whether you arrived at 4 or 36, you’ve successfully recognized an existing pattern and used logical reasoning to justify your answer.

Do you agree with these solutions? Or did you find another pattern? Share your thoughts and challenge your friends to see if they can solve it too. Keep testing your brain with more puzzles to stay sharp and improve your critical thinking skills!