Math problem leaves the internet scratching their heads

If you’re anything like me, you’ll be thankful that the last time you had to wrestle with a tricky math problem was way back in high school. Algebra, fractions, equations – it’s all a distant memory now, right? For some people, math is like a second language.

They thrive on solving puzzles, finding patterns, and diving deep into numbers. Me? I’m not one of those people. I’ve always been more of a creative spirit than a logical thinker. But hey, everyone’s wired differently!

Now, even though math and I have never been the best of friends, I’ve found a surprising new interest in solving puzzles – and not the traditional paper-and-pencil kind. Instead, I’ve discovered a whole world of online riddles and problems that get my brain working in unexpected ways.

No pressure, no deadlines – just me, the screen, and a puzzle to crack when I feel like it. I’m definitely not in a rush, but I have to admit, there’s something oddly satisfying about solving these brain teasers. And I’m not the only one who feels this way.

In fact, I’ve come to realize that there’s a whole group of people out there who love challenges like these. They pride themselves on being able to spot patterns and think outside the box.

I can see why! So, inspired by the puzzle-solving community, we decided to put your brains to the test too. Ready to give it a shot? Grab your thinking cap, because we’ve got a puzzle that’s been driving people crazy all over the internet.

Here’s the riddle:

If 1 + 4 = 5, 2 + 5 = 12, and 3 + 6 = 21, then what is 5 + 8?

It might help if you see it written out like this:

• 1 + 4 = 5
• 2 + 5 = 12
• 3 + 6 = 21
• 5 + 8 = ?

Now, this problem has left people scratching their heads all over the internet. Some are sure they know the answer, while others are completely stumped. It turns out that there are many different ways to approach this puzzle, and several possible answers – depending on how you look at it.

So, if you’ve had a go yourself and are curious if you’ve cracked it, or if, like me, you’re feeling a bit lost and need the answer, read on! We’ve found five different ways to solve this puzzle, and each one leads to a different answer.

Solution One:

• 1 + 4 = 5
• 2 + 5 = 2 + 2(5) = 12
• 3 + 6 = 3 + 3(6) = 21
• 5 + 8 = 5 + 5(8) = 45

Algorithm: A + A(B) = C
Answer: 45

Solution Two:

• 1 + 4 = 1 + 4 + (0) = 5
• 2 + 5 = 2 + 5 + (5) = 12
• 3 + 6 = 3 + 6 + (12) = 21
• 5 + 8 = 5 + 8 + (21) = 34

Algorithm: A + B + C’ = C, where C’ is the previous answer
Answer: 34

Solution Three:

• 1 + 4 = 5 = 5
• 2 + 5 = (5 + 2) + (5) = 12
• 3 + 6 = (7 + 2) + (12) = 21
• 5 + 8 = (9 + 2) + (21) = 32

Algorithm: For {X = 5, C = X + C’, X = X + 2}, where C’ is the previous answer. A and B aren’t used in the equation.
Answer: 32

Solution Four:

• 1 + 4 = 5
• 2 + 5 = 7 (base 5) = 12
• 3 + 6 = 9 (base 4) = 21
• 5 + 8 = 13 (base 3) = 111

Algorithm: For {X = 6, C = (A + B)^(10 → X), X -1} (First answer in Base6, then Base5, then Base4, etc…)
Answer: 111

Solution Five:

• 1 + 4 = 5
• 2 + 5 = 7 (base 5) = 12
• 3 + 6 = 9 (base 4) = 21
• 4 + 7 = 11 (base 3) = 102
• 5 + 8 = 13 (base 2) (aka binary) = 1101

Algorithm: For {X = 6, C = (A + B)^(10 → X), X -1} (First answer in Base6, then Base5, then Base4, etc… including “missing” numbers)
Answer: 1101

So, what do you think? Did you manage to figure it out on your own? Or were you just as baffled as many others? Share your thoughts in the comments below – I’d love to hear how you approached this puzzle!