Here’s a quick puzzle to put your logic skills to the test: three simple equations involving a circle, a triangle, and a square. First, circle times circle equals 16. Next, circle times triangle squared equals 36. Then circle times triangle times square equals 72. What happens when you finally add circle, triangle, and square together? At first glance, it seems like guesswork, but there’s a clear pattern to follow. Read on for a concise, step-by-step breakdown that reveals exactly why the answer is 13—and see if you can solve it faster than your friends!
How Fast Can You Do It?
Ready for a rapid-fire puzzle? Here’s your test of speed and logic:
- Circle × Circle = 16
- Circle × Triangle × Triangle = 36
- Circle × Triangle × Square = 72
- Circle + Triangle + Square = ?
Can you determine the values of circle, triangle, and square—and then add them up—in under a minute? Give it a try before checking the solution below!
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Common Pitfalls
- Skipping the First Clue: If you don’t see that “circle times circle equals 16” means the circle must be 4, you’ll get lost.
- Guessing Instead of Solving: Random trials slow you down when a straightforward approach works best.
- Mixing Up Operations: Confusing multiplication with addition or doing the final sum too early leads to errors.
Step-by-Step Solution
Find the Circle
- From “circle × circle = 16,” we know the circle equals 4.
Find the Triangle
- Substitute into “circle × triangle × triangle = 36”:
- 4 × (triangle²) = 36 → triangle² = 9 → the triangle equals 3.
Find the Square
- Use “circle × triangle × square = 72”:
- 4 × 3 × square = 72 → 12 × square = 72 → the square equals 6.
Compute the Sum
- Finally, add them: 4 + 3 + 6 = 13.
How Did You Do?
Did you arrive at 13 in record time, or did you need a moment to work it out? Share your time and method in the comments below. If this puzzle sharpened your mind, check out more challenges on our site to keep your problem-solving skills in top form!
