Challenge: Can You Solve This Math Problem for Middle Schoolers – Without a Calculator?

When it comes to brain training, many people think of classic puzzles like crosswords or sudoku. However, I’ve recently found myself drawn to a different kind of challenge—the type you’ll see below.

These puzzles have been popping up all over the internet lately, and it’s easy to see why—they’re a lot of fun!

They bring back those old, classic math problems you might have encountered in middle or high school.

The real fun begins when you try to recall the math you learned as a kid to solve them.

Can you figure out the correct solution?

Here is the challenge, in the picture below.

At the top of the image, you’ll find a task followed by four possible answers.

Which answer do you believe is correct?

How did you arrive at your choice?

Take your time to carefully consider the options and find the correct solution.

Finished? Scroll down to see if you selected the right answer!

A

B

C

The correct answer

The correct answer is B: 12.

Why is 12 the Correct Answer?

To understand why the answer is 12, let’s recall the order of operations from school. According to these rules, multiplication should be performed before addition and subtraction. So, we start by solving  3 x 3 ,which gives us 9.

Now, the problem simplifies to: 3 + 9 – 3 + 3.

The answer is therefore 12.

Did you pick the correct number? Congratulations!