Brain teasers like this have been all over the internet lately — and honestly, it’s easy to see why. They’re simple, nostalgic, and surprisingly addictive.
This one takes you straight back to middle school math class.
At the top of the image, there’s a short equation waiting to be solved. Nothing complicated at first glance — just basic arithmetic. But here’s the catch: the trick isn’t in the numbers, it’s in remembering the rules.
So, what do you think the correct answer is?
Take a moment. Don’t rush. Think back to what you learned about the order of operations.
Ready?
The correct answer is 12.
Why? Because multiplication comes before addition and subtraction. Following that rule, you solve 3 × 3 first, which equals 9.
That leaves you with a simplified equation:
3 + 9 – 3 + 3
Now calculate from left to right:
3 + 9 = 12
12 – 3 = 9
9 + 3 = 12
Final answer: 12.
Did you get it right? If you did, your math skills are still sharp.
