There’s a new math puzzle making waves online, and it’s leaving plenty of people scratching their heads. At first glance, it seems simple enough—but don’t be fooled. This problem is tripping up even the brightest minds, with most people getting it wrong on their first try. Think you’ve got what it takes to figure it out? Let’s see if you can beat the odds.

The challenge is part of a trend aimed at reviving basic math skills we may have forgotten since school. With our modern reliance on calculators and smartphones, it’s no surprise that even simple arithmetic can stump us if we haven’t flexed those mental muscles in a while. This puzzle is a great way to shake off the dust and put your problem-solving abilities to the test.

Here’s the setup:

8 = 56
7 = 42
6 = 30
5 = 20
3 = ?

So, what number should replace the question mark? It looks confusing at first, but there’s actually a clear logic behind it. The trick is recognizing the pattern—and that means remembering the order of operations and thinking about how numbers interact.

Let’s break it down. The pattern here is: each number is multiplied by one less than itself. That’s right—the formula is:

n × (n – 1)

Apply this to the sequence:

• 8 × 7 = 56

• 7 × 6 = 42

• 6 × 5 = 30

• 5 × 4 = 20

Now, try it with 3:

3 × (3 – 1) = 3 × 2 = 6

So the correct answer is 6. Did you get it right on your first try? If so, congratulations! You’re already ahead of the curve. But don’t worry if you didn’t—most people don’t. That’s what makes puzzles like this so fun and rewarding.

Want to try another brain teaser? Here’s a quick one:

What’s the answer to this?
4 × 2 + 5 = ?

According to the proper order of operations—remember PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction)—you multiply first, then add.

So:
4 × 2 = 8
8 + 5 = 13

Simple, right? Yet again, many people mistakenly add first or forget the rule, proving that a quick refresher never hurts.

These kinds of challenges aren’t just entertaining—they actually do your brain a lot of good. Studies in cognitive science and psychology show that puzzles and quizzes can sharpen mental focus, strengthen memory, and improve critical thinking. They’re not just for kids or classroom settings; adults benefit just as much, if not more.

One reason quizzes are so effective is because of something called the testing effect. When you retrieve information from memory—like you do during a quiz—you reinforce those mental connections. It’s more effective than just re-reading or passively reviewing material. Every time you recall a fact or apply a concept, your brain strengthens its grip on that knowledge.

Quizzes also keep you actively engaged. Unlike passively scrolling through information, a quiz demands your full attention. You have to think, apply logic, and often make quick decisions. This kind of active learning helps lock in the material far more deeply than passive studying ever could.

There’s also a metacognitive benefit. Taking a quiz shows you what you know—and more importantly, what you don’t know. That feedback helps you adjust your learning strategy. Instead of wasting time reviewing concepts you already understand, you can focus on your weaker areas and make your study time more efficient.

Another overlooked benefit? Quizzes improve focus. When you know you’re going to be tested, you pay closer attention during learning. That focus carries over into other tasks in life, helping you concentrate better in work, conversation, or even during everyday problem-solving.

Quizzes also build confidence. Every correct answer gives you a mental boost. Over time, seeing your progress and improvement can motivate you to learn more and take on bigger challenges. If you gamify the process—with points, levels, or timers—it becomes even more fun and rewarding.

From a brain health standpoint, challenging your mind regularly has long-term perks. Quizzes engage multiple areas of the brain, including memory, logic, and problem-solving centers. That mental workout has been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline later in life. Just like your body needs exercise, so does your brain.

In conclusion, don’t underestimate the power of a good puzzle. Whether it’s a math challenge like the one above or a trivia quiz on your favorite topic, these brain teasers help you stay sharp, engaged, and mentally agile. So the next time you see one of these riddles pop up online, don’t scroll past—take a crack at it. Your brain will thank you.

And hey, you might even impress a few friends while you’re at it.