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Puzzles
Insights puzzle
Solution: ‘The Road Less Traveled’
The solution to this month’s puzzle uses both mathematics and psychology to explain trouble with choosing the fastest route.
Insights puzzle
The Road Less Traveled
When there are two paths to your destination, why does it always seem like you’re on the road with more traffic?
Insights puzzle
Solution: ‘The Slippery Eel of Probability’
The solution to this month’s puzzle examines the use of abstract probabilities as an antidote to real-world ignorance.
Insights puzzle
The Slippery Eel of Probability
How do you solve probability problems that appear to have more than one correct answer?
Insights puzzle
Solution: ‘Information From Randomness?’
The counterintuitive solution to this month’s puzzle raises philosophical questions about randomness and information.
Insights puzzle
Can Information Rise From Randomness?
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.
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The Nine Schoolgirls Challenge
Solve this variation of Thomas Kirkman’s famous 1850 puzzle by arranging girls in walking groups. And think fast — the clock is ticking.