Only those with a high IQ can find the missing number in this brainteaser – but can you beat the three minute record?

The Sun

25-05-2025

TWIDDLING your thumbs this bank holiday Sunday? We have just the thing to keep you and your brain busy.
The new brainteaser challenges readers to correctly work out the value of each of the symbols to find the value of the missing number at the end of the sequence.
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Although this seems like an easy task, just one in five readers can correctly work out the missing number in under a minute.
On average, the puzzle, devised by tombola, takes readers three minutes to solve, however be warned as two in five readers either answer incorrectly or give up altogether.
If you're still struggling, scroll down to find the answer...
Certain brainteasers and optical illusions, particularly those that involve patterns or sequences, can help strengthen both short-term and long-term memory.
By working through puzzles on a regular basis, you will actively engage the brain's memory systems and directly improve your future attempts at visual challenges.
Many brainteasers, like this one, require challengers thinking outside the box.
This improves creative problem-solving skills by encouraging the brain to come up with innovative solutions.
How can optical illusions and brainteasers help me?
Engaging in activities like solving optical illusions and brainteasers can have many cognitive benefits as it can stimulate various brain regions.
Some benefits include:
Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in these activities challenges the brain, promoting mental agility and flexibility.
Problem-solving skills: Regular practice enhances analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Memory improvement: These challenges often require memory recall and can contribute to better memory function.
Creativity: They encourage thinking outside the box, fostering creativity and innovative thought processes.
Focus and attention: Working on optical illusions and brainteasers requires concentration, contributing to improved focus.
Stress relief: The enjoyable nature of these puzzles can act as a form of relaxation and stress relief.
It also translates to real-life situations where you might need to approach challenges in new and inventive ways.
99 percent of people can't find the hidden objects in under 20 seconds - are you up to the challenge
If you're after another brainteaser to challenge yourself, try this one - as apparently only those with a high IQ are able to find the heart hidden among the spring flowers.
Or you can have a go at figuring out the hidden message in this band's cover art that has confused fans for years.
Lastly, puzzle fanatics have been left scratching their heads trying to find the lost feather in just 12 seconds.
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