A Cool NEW Math Trick Where the Answer is Always 4

Today, we're going to explore one such trick where no matter what number you start with, the answer is always 4. Intrigued? Let's dive in! 

This math trick is incredibly simple and can be a fun activity to engage kids or even adults. You can amaze your friends and family by know that the answer is always 4. 

Teachers and parents, this is also a fun little activity to try with your students or kids. You could even challenge them to try and explain how the trick works. 

If the answer isn't 4, then a calculation mistake was made and so needs to be redone. Writing it out or using a calculator might help to check.

EXAMPLE of Using the Trick:

Step 1: Choose any number >> I choose 50
Step 2: Multiply your number by 3 >>  50 X 3 = 150
Step 3: Add 12 to the result >> 150 + 12 = 162
Step 4: Divide the result by 3 >> 162/3 = 54
Step 5: Subtract the number chosen in Step 1 from the result in Step 4 >> 54 - 50 = 4

And the answer is 4! 

Voila! No matter what number anyone starts with, the answer will always be 4.

Try it with some other numbers and see if it works. Leave your chosen number and calculations in the comments. 


While this trick seems like magic, it is actually based on fundamental mathematical principles - specifically, the order of operations and the distributive property of multiplication over addition. Mathmagicians, can you figure out the magic behind this? 

​Conclusion: Math Can Be Fun!

The 'Always 4' trick is a great way to make math fun and engaging. It's not just a party trick, but a clever way to introduce and reinforce key mathematical concepts. So, try this trick with different numbers or share it with others. In the midst of all the fun, don't forget to highlight the beautiful logic of mathematics that makes this trick possible. Happy calculating!