Good at math but suck at puzzles

  • Thread starter synkk
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In summary, the individual is considering studying mathematics at university but struggles with puzzles and riddles. They are wondering if these skills are related to a mathematics degree and how they can improve. However, it is stated that performing well in puzzles does not necessarily reflect an ability in mathematics. The individual is recommended to work through a specific math book and take math courses in university to see if they enjoy it. The conversation also includes a solution to a riddle and a discussion about calculus.
  • #1
synkk
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Now I'm thinking of studying mathematics or a mathematics related subject at university, however i can't seem to let go how bad i am at puzzles/riddles. In maths tests I always get a good grade (90%+), I read around the subject etc and genuinely really enjoy it, however when i get a puzzle or a riddle which are online or in a book, i just can't do it.

For example:

"You need to boil eggs for exactly 9 minutes or else the visiting Duchess will
complain, and you will lose your job as head chef.
But you have only 2 Hourglasses, one measures 7-minutes, and the other
measures 4-minutes. How can you correctly measure 9 minutes?"

I couldn't figure that out, i had to look online to find the solution.

Is riddles/puzzles like this at all related to a mathematics degree? Is there anyway i could improve on these skills, or are people just naturally good at these things.
 
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  • #2
Performing well in puzzles doesn't really say much about an ability in mathematics. Somebody who is very good in puzzles might not be good with the abstract reasoning of mathematics.

I wouldn't worry too much about it. If you really want to measure your ability to do mathematics, get a good math book and work through it. I like to recommend "a book of abstract algebra" by Pinter. If you enjoy the proofs and if you can work through the exercises moderately well, then you should be ok.

Also, if you work through the Pinter book, you will be more ready to solve the riddle in question. The riddle in the OP is an example of a Diophantine equation, which are not at all easy to solve in general.
 
  • #3
micromass said:
Performing well in puzzles doesn't really say much about an ability in mathematics. Somebody who is very good in puzzles might not be good with the abstract reasoning of mathematics.

I wouldn't worry too much about it. If you really want to measure your ability to do mathematics, get a good math book and work through it. I like to recommend "a book of abstract algebra" by Pinter. If you enjoy the proofs and if you can work through the exercises moderately well, then you should be ok.

Also, if you work through the Pinter book, you will be more ready to solve the riddle in question. The riddle in the OP is an example of a Diophantine equation, which are not at all easy to solve in general.

It's just that, even easy ones i find difficult, but I'll try not to worry about it too much.

The book you suggested, at what age is it aimed for? I'm in lower sixth form in the UK (age 16-18) which i think is senior in high school?
 
  • #4
synkk said:
It's just that, even easy ones i find difficult, but I'll try not to worry about it too much.

The book you suggested, at what age is it aimed for? I'm in lower sixth form in the UK (age 16-18) which i think is senior in high school?

Abstract algebra is a topic which is usually taught in university. But I feel that the book I suggested should be good for high-schoolers. The exercises won't always be easy though.
 
  • #5
May I ask what the answer to the riddle is? sorry to interrupt :P
 
  • #6
In maths tests I always get a good grade (90%+)

Have you taken calculus yet? Much of the math you see in high school isn't so much math as it is calculation/accounting. I'd take a wait and see approach- keep doing what you are doing, and take some math courses when you get to university and see if you like them.

TheKracken said:
May I ask what the answer to the riddle is? sorry to interrupt :P

Run the 7 and the 4 minute together. When the 4 minute runs out, flip it over (you now have three minutes remaining in the 7).

When the 7 minute now runs out start cooking (you now have a minute left in the 4 minute timer).

When the four runs out, you've cooked for one minute. You can now use the 4 minute twice to time the remaining 8 minutes.
 
  • #7
Why not just run the 7 minute, and then run half of the 4 minute?
 
  • #8
tahayassen said:
Why not just run the 7 minute, and then run half of the 4 minute?

How will you know that half of the 4 minutes passed?? The 9 minutes must be measured EXACTLY.
 
  • #9
The Answer to the Riddle:

First thing you do is start both hourglasses.
After the 4 minute one runs out of sand, immediately turn it over to start it again.
After the 7 minute one runs out of sand, place the 4 minute one on its side to halt its progress. The 4 minute one should have one minute left.

Now, since you know the 4 minute timer has one minute left, you may now cook the egg. Each time the 4 minute timer runs out you turn it over again until you get the desired amount of time. In this case since you have 1 minute left on the timer you can add 4 minutes twice for a total of 9 minutes
 
  • #10
Yes, we've started calculus, but nothing hard yet.
 

FAQ: Good at math but suck at puzzles

What is the difference between being good at math and being good at puzzles?

While both math and puzzles involve problem-solving and critical thinking skills, they require different approaches. Math typically involves using known formulas and rules to solve problems, while puzzles often require creative thinking and trial-and-error strategies.

Why do some people excel at math but struggle with puzzles?

Individuals may have a natural aptitude or preference for one type of problem-solving over another. Additionally, different areas of the brain may be responsible for math and puzzle-solving abilities, so some people may have stronger neural connections in one area compared to the other.

Can someone improve their puzzle-solving skills if they are already good at math?

Yes, with practice and exposure to different types of puzzles, anyone can improve their puzzle-solving abilities. While having a strong foundation in math can be helpful, it is not a guarantee of success in puzzles.

Are there any benefits to being good at math but not puzzles?

Yes, being good at math can lead to career opportunities in fields such as engineering, finance, and science. It also helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can be applied in various situations.

Is it possible to be good at both math and puzzles?

Yes, many people have strengths in both areas. While some may naturally excel in one over the other, with practice and exposure to different types of problems, individuals can improve their skills in both math and puzzles.

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