Puzzles

Can you generate aesthetically pleasing, symmetrical curves with two numbers and a simple mathematical function?

The solution to this month’s puzzle uses both mathematics and psychology to explain trouble with choosing the fastest route.

When there are two paths to your destination, why does it always seem like you’re on the road with more traffic?

The solution to this month’s puzzle examines the use of abstract probabilities as an antidote to real-world ignorance.

How do you solve probability problems that appear to have more than one correct answer?

The counterintuitive solution to this month’s puzzle raises philosophical questions about randomness and information.

Quanta’s new puzzle column asks you to believe the seemingly impossible — that you can win at a number guessing game with absolutely no information.

Solve this variation of Thomas Kirkman’s famous 1850 puzzle by arranging girls in walking groups. And think fast — the clock is ticking.