Wondering where you stand on intelligence? You may have come across various tests that are designed to reveal your IQ. One of them may be a simple but tricky example: 48 : 2 (9 + 3) = ?. This will test not only your logic, but also your ability to follow mathematical rules correctly.

Intelligence is not immutable

While we all inherit certain genetic predispositions, this is just a starting point. IQ can be developed – and equally weakened – over the course of a lifetime. Above all, it depends on how we nurture our thinking, who we surround ourselves with and what we spend our time doing.

The influence of environment and activities

If we spend time with people who have insight, clear goals and a desire to learn new things, we ourselves become motivated to develop. Conversely, an environment without inspiration and stimulation can gradually weaken our intelligence. Regular reading, seeking information or watching educational programmes can also help us to grow. Various mental games and puzzles are also important, as they activate a wide range of cognitive functions.

A mathematical puzzle for you

Now let’s take a look at this puzzling example. Can you solve it?

Solve this example. ━━ Solve this example. ( Source: AI - chatGPT )

So how to do it? Let’s start with a parenthesis: 9 + 3 = 12. This changes the example to 48 : 2 × 12. Following the rules of mathematics, we proceed from left to right – first we divide: 48 : 2 = 24. Then we multiply: 24 × 12 = 288. The correct result is therefore 288.