A recently shared car park puzzle, initially designed for children, has left many adults perplexed, sparking considerable discussion across social media platforms. The puzzle, titled "A Lot Of Thought," was posted to X by the user @quiz_riddles, who regularly shares quizzes and riddles.

The challenge presents an image of six parking spaces numbered 16, 06, 68, 88, [X], and 98. The task posed is to determine the number of the parking space containing the car, specifically the number represented by [X]. Although aimed at six-year-olds, the riddle has proven to be a difficult conundrum for many adults, who frequently attempt to tackle it with conventional logic and mathematical reasoning.

Interestingly, the puzzle's origins trace back to its inclusion in an admission test for primary schools in Hong Kong, where it is expected to be solved by children in approximately 20 seconds. This quick turnaround highlights the different cognitive approaches typically exhibited by adults and children, with kids often looking at problems from various perspectives.

The solution to the riddle lies in a straightforward method that many adults seem to overlook: turning the image upside down. When viewed from this angle, the numbers transform into 86, [X], 88, 89, 90, and 91, readily revealing that the missing number is 87. Despite the simplicity of the answer, adults have been known to overthink the problem, with some suggesting incorrect answers such as 78, 75, or even 45.

David Bodycombe, a British puzzle creator credited with the invention of this brainteaser, expressed surprise at the extent to which the puzzle has spread. The idea originally came to him more than two decades ago while he was in a car park in Portugal, leading to creations that have captured the attention of numerous puzzlers since.

The widespread confusion surrounding this puzzle reflects broader observations about cognitive differences in problem-solving between adults and children, illustrating how adults may often miss simple solutions by adhering too rigidly to conventional logic. The enduring popularity of the riddle showcases the appeal of mental challenges and their ability to engage individuals across various age groups.

Source: Noah Wire Services