8 – 4 = 61 Matchstick Puzzle

If you are looking for a quick activity for your kids, then you should try the matchstick puzzles on my blog. These lateral thinking puzzles are easy to setup and require a very basic material from home, a matchstick or a toothpick. In this tricky 8 – 4 = 61 matchstick puzzle, you have to solve the equation by moving just two matchsticks.

To get started, place the matchsticks as shown below in the puzzle. By just moving two matchstick, correct the equation 8 – 4 = 61. These lateral thinking puzzle might even change your point of view on how you look at a puzzle.

Give it a try and let me know your solution in the comments section below.

 

Step 1

First change the 4 into an 11.

Step 2

Then, remove one matchstick from the equal sign to change it to a minus sign. Place the removed matchstick under the minus sign to convert it into an equal sign.

That’s the solution for this puzzle. I don’t think you agree with me because 8 is not equal to 11 – 61 ? You are right. But remember, I asked you to change your point of view in the beginning itself. All you have to do is look it upside down. And you have the correct equation 19 – 11 = 8.

I hope you find the puzzle interesting. And as a matter of fact, in the olden days every house had a box of matches and people not only used them to light up the candles but also to challenge their friends with tricky puzzles.

If you are looking for books on matchstick puzzles then here is my favorite one.

And, while you are here , please don’t forget to check my latest posts

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• Multiplication Buzz
• Target Number- Order of Operations- Math Card Game
• Red Cabbage Science experiment – pH indicator

Have fun !