The Number Puzzler

The Art of Cracking Number Sequence Puzzles

Tarquin publishes this book as a collection of number puzzles on which to test your mind and ingenuity. It is also an interesting and thorough introduction to the methods and techniques for solving any number sequence.

How each number sequence puzzle works

Every puzzle is a set of numbers in sequence with missing terms. Behind each one sits an underlying rule or hidden connection, and you have to spot what it could be. A familiar example is the Fibonacci sequence: each term is the sum of the two before it.

Once you find the rule, it explains how the number sequence was generated: you can then calculate the answer for each missing term. Sometimes the rule is a short formula; sometimes it is a connection you can only describe in words.

In practice, this builds logical reasoning and confidence in reading an integer sequence, not arithmetic alone.

Twelve types of number sequence puzzle to solve yourself

The fascination of maths sequence puzzles lies in combining logic with sudden bursts of inspiration. There is no single way to solve them, but working through the twelve types gives you a valuable insight into methods to try.

• Twelve types of number sequence puzzle, each introduced with worked examples
• Five puzzles of that type at the end of each set of examples, for you to solve yourself
• A final chapter of five collections of fifteen randomly mixed puzzles: 135 puzzles to solve in total

Ready for number puzzles in newspapers and competitions

The mixed collections test your skill and ingenuity to the full: no chapter heading gives you a hint about the rule behind each number pattern. They are a real workout for the brain.

Once you have mastered them, you will be well placed for the number puzzles so popular in newspapers, magazines and competitions.

Who this puzzle book suits

The book is best suited to independent learners. It also suits teachers or parents who want a ready maths puzzle for a lesson starter or a quiet half hour at home.

Find the sequence puzzles in Tarquin Select

This book is also in many Tarquin Select packages, alongside hundreds of other resources, for a small annual fee. Go straight to the collection for your preferred age group: Ages 7-11, Ages 11-14, Ages 15-16.

You can try a puzzle before you buy. The sample pages and free activity show how the first methods are set out.

Download Sample Pages and a Free Activity - click here for PDF delivered by email