EQUATE: a daily maths puzzle
EQUATE is a daily number-deduction puzzle. A total is shown, and behind it is a hidden equation that makes it: three whole numbers from 1 to 99 joined by +, −, × and ÷.
Every guess you enter must itself equal the total. Each number is then marked as exact, in the equation but in a different place, or not in it. On weekdays, a number that is not exact also gets an arrow saying whether the hidden number in that place is higher or lower.
Weekends are harder: four numbers from 1 to 25, and no arrows.
How to play EQUATE
- A total is shown. Find the hidden equation that makes it: three whole numbers from 1 to 99, joined by + − × ÷. At weekends there are four numbers, from 1 to 25.
- × and ÷ are done before + and −. Every step must give a positive whole number.
- Every guess must itself equal the total. You have six tries.
- Each number is marked: exact, in the equation but in a different place, or not in it. On weekdays, if it is not exact, an arrow says whether the hidden number in that place is higher or lower. At weekends there are no arrows.
- Each operator is marked: right, used elsewhere, or not used.
- Order does not matter where it makes no difference: 3 × 4 + 5 and 5 + 4 × 3 are the same answer.
Tips
- Multiplication and division are done before addition and subtraction, so 3 + 4 × 5 is 23, not 35.
- Make your first guess with three quite different numbers and two different operators, to learn as much as possible.
- On weekdays the arrows are the strongest clue. Use them to squeeze each position from both sides.
- An operator marked "used elsewhere" tells you the equation has that operator, in the other slot.
- Order only matters where it changes the sum. 3 × 4 + 5 and 5 + 4 × 3 are the same answer.
Common questions
How many tries do I get?
Six.
Why was my guess refused?
A guess has to equal the total shown, and every step has to give a positive whole number.
Why are weekends different?
For variety and a harder challenge: four smaller numbers, with no higher or lower arrows.
Can the same number appear twice?
Not in the hidden equation: it always uses different numbers. Your own guesses may repeat one.
How is EQUATE scored?
Out of 1,000, mostly for solving it, with more for needing four guesses or fewer and for a quick time.
A new puzzle every day
EQUATE has one puzzle a day, released at midnight UK time and the same for everyone. It is free, and you can play without an account. Finish it to keep your streak going and to see where you stand on the leaderboards.
More maths puzzles on Puzzleroo
- TARGET — Combine six numbers to hit the target.