What Makes This Work? 

I recently came across a fascinating mathematical riddle that challenged me to make a statement true by inserting a single mathematical symbol or number, without changing the order of existing digits. It’s a great exercise in creative thinking and understanding the power of mathematical operations. From my experience, these types of puzzles often require looking beyond basic arithmetic and considering symbols like factorial (!), decimal points, square roots, or even exponentiation. For example, inserting a factorial symbol can drastically change the value of a number, making an initially incorrect equation valid. What makes this approach so effective is that it encourages learners to explore mathematical concepts in a playful and engaging way. It isn’t just about finding the right answer; it’s about developing flexible thinking and a deeper appreciation for how numbers and symbols interact. I found this kind of puzzle particularly useful for teaching students who struggle with maths anxiety. By framing math problems as riddles or brainteasers, the pressure to get the right answer immediately is reduced, encouraging experimentation and curiosity. If you’re interested in trying this yourself, start by identifying all possible symbols that can be inserted between digits—like plus, minus, multiplication, division, factorial, or even repetition of digits as powers. Then, evaluate how each changes the truthfulness of the statement. This method not only sharpens mental math skills but also introduces essential concepts relevant for exams and real-world math applications. Ultimately, puzzles that ask "What Makes This Work?" promote a hands-on learning experience, helping learners and teachers turn abstract mathematical symbols into practical tools for problem-solving and critical thinking.