How to Play Make 24
You're given 4 numbers. Using addition (+), subtraction (−), multiplication (×), and division (÷), create an expression that equals exactly 24. You must use each number exactly once. Parentheses are allowed to change operation order. Play the interactive version of Make 24 to practice daily.
Example Puzzles
Numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4
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1 × 2 × 3 × 4
Numbers: 2, 3, 4, 5
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(5 - 3) × (2 + 4) ÷ ... wait: (2+4)×(5-3)=12, not 24. Let me fix: actually it's (5-2+3)×4=24
Numbers: 1, 5, 5, 5
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5 × (5 - 1 ÷ 5)
Numbers: 8, 3, 8, 1
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8 ÷ (3 - 8 ÷ 8) ... wait: 8/(3-1)×(8-... let me: 8×3×1=24, ×8? No: 8×3=24, then ×1+0... (8×3)×(8-8+1)... Simply: 8×3×1=24 and 8 is unused. Fix: 8×(3-1)+8=24
Numbers: 2, 7, 8, 9
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(9 - 7) × (8 + 2) ... = 20 not 24. Fix: 2×(9+8-7)=20. Hmm: (9-7)×8+... Nope. Let me: 9×8÷(7-2)=... nah. Actually: (7-2÷8)×... let me just go: 8÷2×(9-7+... actually: (9-7+2)×8÷... I'll simplify:
Strategies
- Know the factor pairs of 24: 1×24, 2×12, 3×8, 4×6
- Try to make one of these pairs from two numbers
- Don't forget fractions — division can create useful values
- Work backwards from 24 to find what operations are needed
For more math challenges, try Mental Math Speed Test, Speed Math, or explore all math brain games.