This tricky math problem will really challenge your skills. Ready for a mental workout? Break free from the mid-week slump by tackling a math puzzle that’s been circulating everywhere. Unlike most math problems, which have a single correct solution, this one offers two valid answers.

The First Solution:

Start by adding 1 and 4 to get 5.
Then, add 2 and 5 to the previous result (5), which gives 12.
For the third line, add 3 + 6 + 12 to get 21.
Finally, add 8 + 11 + 21 to reach 40.
Did you get 40? If not, let’s explore the second method.

The Second Solution:
In this approach, add the first number to the product of the first number and the second number.

For the first line: 1 + (1 × 4) = 5.
For the second line: 2 + (2 × 5) = 12.
For the third line: 3 + (3 × 6) = 21.
For the final line: 8 + (8 × 11) = 96.
This method results in 96. Both solutions are valid, but they lead to different answers, offering a fun and thought-provoking challenge!