Do you remember how in math class you used to complain that problems like the ones you were being taught were never gonna be useful in real life? Well, you were wrong. And unfortunately, you weren’t the only one thinking like that–which is why when this math problem first went viral on social media, only one in a thousand people could figure it out.
So now, if you want to be part of the very small percentage of people that were able to figure this problem out on their own, you’re gonna have to recall your mathematical skills. Are you ready? Strap on your calculator and come out with your digits blazing.
We won’t leave you alone though. Here’s a hint: In order to solve this problem, you have to think outside the box. No, it’s not as simple as it looks and you’ll soon realize there is more to this equation than meets the eye.
Oh, and another thing. You know that there is usually only one right answer to math problems in general? Well, two common solutions to this problem have surfaced, and they are causing quite a debate.
Now, if you want to solve this problem without any help, stop reading right now and don’t watch the video. However, if you’re ready to give up, please continue.
Okay, here’s the answer. Most people agree that 1 = 4 equals 5, but when you move onto the next line, where 2 + 5 equals 12, things get a little tricky. However, what you need to do is to ad 2 + 5 + the last result, which in this case is 5. Continue to do the same until the end, and you’ll be able to figure out the answer.
The second solution models itself after the equation: a + b = a(b). Obviously 1 + 5 = 5, but you could also reach 5 by adding 1 to 4 times 1. With the second line, 2 + 2(5) = 12. This is the sum also listed in the equation above. Continue to do the same until the end. And in case we weren’t clear enough, you can just watch the video.
