Almost nobody can solve 'simple' maths equation as 'hundreds' remain baffled

A new brain teaser has left users a little stumped. The problem has sparked more than 300 comments from confused social media users who’ve dubbed the ‘devilish’. Brainteasers are a great way to promote mental ability and ensure that cognitive function remains sharp. However, some brainteasers can prove a little too tricky for even the most seasoned of puzzle enthusiasts.

User @rhstudyzone shared the tricky puzzle, which promises to challenge ‘even the most adept problem solvers’, to the platform. The brainteaser, which has gained over 12,000 views, is presented as a number of equations.

The puzzle is made up of mathematical equations which have been handwritten onto a piece of paper. The brainteaser reads: "a + M = 10, a - M = 6, a ÷ M = ?" and appears to be fairly simple to complete, but it turns out that finding the solution requires a really sharp mind after it’s left hundreds of users stumped.

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The puzzle has got over 300 responses on X, with users quick to comment on the tricky teaser. One user exclaimed, "This is such a clever riddle! I love how it makes you think differently about numbers." Another chimed in, stating, "I was stuck for ages but finally figured it out. It’s a great way to keep the mind sharp!"

For lots of users, the puzzle proved too tough to solve. One person admitted: "I’m terrible at maths, but I can’t help but keep trying. This one’s really testing my limits!" While another user explained that they wanted to do it with their friends and added: "I can’t wait to share this with my friends. We love these kinds of challenges!"

Some users opted to share how they'd worked the riddle out and what answer they had got. One said: "a = 8, m = 2, 8/2 = 4, answer: 4", while a second added: "The correct answer would be number 4 for the value of a/M as the value comes to number 8 and the same for M comes to number 2."