In matchstick puzzles, you are presented with an incorrect equation made using matchsticks, and you must move 1 or more matchsticks to turn it into a valid equation.
You must use all of the matches, and you are not allowed to make an inequality symbol such as ≠, ≥, >, <, or ≤.
In each of these 7 fun matchstick equation puzzles, move exactly 1 match to fix the equation:
Click for Solution to 1 + 2 = 8
7 + 2 = 9
Bonus: find 2 different solutions!
Click for Solution to 6 + 4 = 4
8 – 4 = 4
0 + 4 = 4
Click for Solution to 4 – 4 = 7
11 – 4 = 7
Click for Solution to 6 + 1 = 12
5 + 7 = 12
Click for Solution to 8 + 3 = 3
6 + 3 = 9
Click for Solution to 5 + 9 = 9
5 + 3 = 8
6 + 3 = 9
Bonus: find 2 different solutions!
Click for Solution to 3 + 8 – 4 = 0
3 + 9 – 4 = 8
3 + 8 – 11 = 0
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9 + 9 = 2
answer moving one match stick ?
This is impossible. I have tried for weeks
This is impossible – 23+8=17 moving just 2 matchstick.
Nine + three equals twelve
3+9=12
The solution to 4+4=7 is incorrect. You would have moved two matchsticks, rather move one matchstick and remove another, to get that answer. However, that solution would be correct if the equation was 4-4=7.
Thanks for the catch. It has been corrected now!
1-9=5
answer moving one matchstick
1+4=5
Love these puzzles! They are perfect for my students. Thank you for posting them!
Question: On 6+4=4, you list 3 solutions, including 5+4=9. Traditionally, wouldn’t we need a second match to turn a 4 into a 9 (to have the horizontal bottom piece like clock numbers)?
Thank you again!
Good point, that was a bit of an inconsistency. I’ve corrected/removed that one now, apologies for the delay. Thanks John!
Another solution for 5 + 9 = 9 is 6 + 3 = 9
Good find! Added now.
77+77=77. Correct the equation.
your solutions to 3 + 8 – 4 = 0 include one where a 4 is turned into a 9, ie there is no tail at the bottom of the 9.
I don’t think that should be allowed, but if it is you have missed other solutions (eg 6+4=4 can become 5+4=9)
Good catch. You’re right that 9’s should have the tail at the bottom, and so I’ve removed that solution from the last one. Thanks!
Thanks, although it still says “find 3 different solutions”
Fixed! Appreciate the keen eye