Think you’re good at math? Let’s put that confidence to the test. The problem we’re exploring today looks so simple that many people rush right through it—only to get it wrong. It’s one of those classic math puzzles that spreads across the internet, sparking heated debates and unexpected “aha” moments.
Here’s the challenge:
60 + 60 × 0 + 1 = ?
At first glance, it seems like basic arithmetic. But here’s the twist—it’s designed to fool you. Before reading further, pause for a moment and try solving it on your own. What do you think the answer is?
Is it 0? 1? Maybe 121? Or 61? Take your time, jot down your answer, and let’s work through it together.
Why So Many People Get This Puzzle Wrong
You wouldn’t believe how often people miscalculate this equation. And the reason isn’t that they don’t know math—it’s that they forget to follow the proper steps. Most of us are used to reading left to right, and we tend to carry that habit into math problems too. But arithmetic doesn’t follow reading rules. It follows a specific logic called the order of operations.
Here’s a common mistake: someone reads the equation left to right like a sentence and calculates it this way:
60 + 60 = 120
Then 120 × 0 = 0
And finally, 0 + 1 = 1
It seems reasonable, right? But that’s not how math works.
Others might think the equation equals 0 because of the 60 × 0 in the middle. But again, that only affects one part of the equation—not the whole thing.
This is where the confusion starts. The equation looks simple, but it tests whether you remember the fundamental rules of math.
Video : 60+60×0+1=
Let’s Talk About the Real Rule: Order of Operations
If you remember PEMDAS from school, you’re already on the right track.
PEMDAS stands for:
Parentheses
Exponents
Multiplication
Division
Addition
Subtraction
According to this rule, multiplication and division come before addition and subtraction. That means you don’t just go from left to right. You handle multiplication first—no exceptions unless there are parentheses to override the order.
So let’s take that rule and apply it here step-by-step.
Breaking It Down: 60 + 60 × 0 + 1
Let’s look at the equation again:
60 + 60 × 0 + 1
Step 1: Handle the multiplication
60 × 0 = 0
Now plug that result into the original equation:
60 + 0 + 1
Step 2: Perform addition from left to right
60 + 0 = 60
60 + 1 = 61
So the final answer is 61.
Why Do People Say 1 or 0 Instead?
It’s usually because they skipped the order of operations—or forgot that multiplication takes priority. When we rush, our brains jump to the part that stands out (like the ×0), and we assume it cancels out everything. But in reality, it only cancels the number directly connected to it—in this case, the second 60. The first 60 and the +1 are unaffected.
It’s the perfect example of how a tiny detail can completely change the outcome.
Why This Puzzle Is More Than Just a Math Trick
At first glance, this might feel like a silly mistake. But puzzles like this are more than just clever wordplay. They challenge your ability to slow down, focus, and follow logic instead of assumptions. That’s why they’re great tools for training your brain.
These types of puzzles improve your:
Focus and concentration
Critical thinking
Memory recall
Attention to detail
Ability to spot traps and tricks
And let’s be honest—they’re also fun to share with friends and coworkers just to see who gets it right.
So… Did You Get It Right?
Be honest—what was your first answer? Did you say 61? Or did you fall into the “1” trap?
Even if you got it wrong, don’t feel bad. The trick is subtle, and that’s what makes it such a great brain teaser. It’s not about being a math genius—it’s about reading carefully and applying the right rules.
This puzzle has gone viral countless times, and every time it does, it divides people into two camps: those who calculate correctly, and those who confidently explain a totally wrong answer.
Video : Can you solve this Maths puzzles?
Let’s Hear Your Answer
Now that you know the correct answer is 61, we want to hear from you! What did you get at first?
Drop a comment and tell us:
What was your initial answer?
Did you follow PEMDAS or go left to right?
Were you surprised by the final result?
And while you’re at it, challenge someone else with this equation. Ask them the same question—“What’s 60 + 60 × 0 + 1?” Then sit back and see if they get it right or fall into the trap.
Conclusion: Small Details, Big Difference
This puzzle might be short and sweet, but it carries a powerful lesson: Never underestimate the importance of the details. Just one misstep in logic or a skipped rule can change the whole outcome.
So the next time you face a problem—whether it’s a math equation or a real-life decision—remember to slow down, double-check, and follow the right steps.
And of course, if you enjoyed this brain teaser, stay tuned. We’ll be sharing more puzzles, riddles, and logical challenges to keep your brain sharp and your problem-solving game strong.
Final answer?
60 + 60 × 0 + 1 = 61
Now go see how many people you can stump!
