Master the number chain puzzle game with this complete tutorial. Learn the rules, understand PEMDAS, and develop strategies to solve puzzles faster.
In Numbo Math, you see a chain of numbers with blank spaces between them. Your goal is to fill in the mathematical operators (+, -, ×, ÷) to make the equation equal the target number.
3 ? 4 ? 2 = 14
Fill in the ? with +, -, ×, or ÷
Solution: 3 + 4 × 2 = 3 + 8 = 11... Wait, that is not 14! You need to think about order of operations.
PEMDAS tells you the order in which to perform mathematical operations. It stands for:
Parentheses
Solve expressions inside brackets first
Exponents
Calculate powers and roots
Multiplication
Multiply numbers (left to right with Division)
Division
Divide numbers (left to right with Multiplication)
Addition
Add numbers (left to right with Subtraction)
Subtraction
Subtract numbers (left to right with Addition)
Important:
Multiplication and Division have equal priority - work left to right. Same with Addition and Subtraction. Think of it as: P, then E, then MD (left to right), then AS (left to right).
Example 1: 2 + 3 × 4 = ?
Answer: 14
Example 2: 10 - 6 ÷ 2 = ?
Answer: 7
Example 3: 8 ÷ 4 × 2 = ?
Answer: 4
Example 4 (with parentheses): (3 + 2) × 4 = ?
Answer: 20
Start with the target
Look at your target number first. Is it large? You might need multiplication. Small or negative? Think about division or subtraction.
Try multiplication first
Multiplication has the biggest impact on results. If your target is much larger than your numbers, × is probably needed.
Use hints wisely
Stuck? Use a hint to reveal one operator. Learning from hints helps you recognize patterns for future puzzles.
Practice daily
The Daily Numbo puzzle is perfect for building consistent practice habits. Try to maintain a streak!
Put your knowledge to the test. Start with Easy mode if you are new, or jump into Medium for a challenge.