536 Curious Problems And Puzzles

This compilation of long-inaccessible puzzles by a famous puzzle master offers challenges ranging from arithmetical and algebraical problems to those involving geometry, combinatorics, and topology, plus game, domino, and match puzzles. Includes answers.

Fifty-one original puzzles include complex crosswords, a collection of amusing stories with a series of clues that lead to a single solution at the end, and an advanced series of math and logic puzzles — no skills beyond high school algebra needed. Most puzzles include hints; solutions are provided for all.

A collection of math and logic puzzles features number games, magic squares, tricks, problems with dominoes and dice, and cross sums, in addition to other intellectual teasers.

FLEX YOUR brain power like never before! From acclaimed author Dr. Gary Gruber, whose proven critical-thinking methods have sold more than seven million books, this collection of mind-bending brain teasers is sure to challenge even the most experienced problem solver. Inside are logic puzzles, riddles, maddening math problems, mental games, and more! A ship is twice as old as the ship's boiler was when the ship was as old as the boiler is. The ratio of the boiler's age now to the ship's age now is what? What English word contains all the vowels, in alphabetical order? What is the three-digit number that can be made from the digits 2, 3, 5, and 7 where no two digits in the three-digit number are alike, and where the three-digit number is a multiple of each of the digits chosen? Stumped? Dr. Gruber reveals the fascinating explanations and detailed strategies for solving even the trickiest problems using his exclusive Gruber Method. DISCLAIMER: The brain teasers in this book may get you so wrapped up in critical thinking that you may not be able to do your regular work until you solve them! Any abrupt or gradual increase in creativity, intelligence, or motivation to get a better job suited to your newfound talents is strictly the reader's responsibility. For more than thirty years, Gary R. Gruber, PhD, has been recognized as a leading expert on the SAT, test-taking methods, and critical-thinking skills. His methods have been used by PBS, Sylvan Learning Centers, Grolier's Encyclopedia, and school districts throughout the country. Dr. Gruber's innovative problem-solving strategies make up the heart of the new MyMaxScore's online test prep (www.mymaxscore.com).

This book includes 110 puzzles, not as individual problems but as incidents in connected stories. The first 31 are amusingly posed by pilgrims in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Additional puzzles are presented using different characters. Many require only the ability to exercise logical or visual skills; others offer a stimulating challenge to the mathematically advanced.