Make 24 — Use Every Number (Grades 5–6)
The classic "Make 24" puzzle: given four numbers, use each exactly once, with any operations and parentheses, to make 24.
Understanding make 24
It builds fluency and flexible thinking — there's often a clever grouping. With 4, 4, 3, 2: 4 × (3 + 2) + 4 = 20 + 4 = 24 (each number used once) — try combinations until one lands on 24.
Seeing it in action
Worked example
Use 6, 4, 2, 2 (each once) to make 24.
6 × 4 = 24, and use the 2s as 2 − 2 = 0 added on: 6 × 4 + (2 − 2) = 24. (Many groupings work.)
Use every number once to reach 24.
A common mistake, and the fix
Reaching 24 without using every number.
With 6, 4, 2 and 2, 6 × 4 = 24 leaves both 2s unused, and the rule is that each number is used exactly once. Fold them in without changing the value: 6 × 4 × (2 ÷ 2) = 24.
Try a few
Use 6, 6, 2, 2 to make 24.
multiplying all four gives 144; two products added give 12 + 12.
Use 9, 3, 2, 1 to make 24.
add inside the bracket first: 12 × 2.
Use 10, 4, 2, 2 to make 24.
subtract inside the bracket first: 6 × 4.
Try it in Numeris.
A short lesson, then practice with feedback on every answer.
Put the reasoning on paper.
Try six fraction, angle, perimeter and area questions with explained answers, for grades 4–6.
Free printable · 3 pagesText version (screen-reader friendly): Draw it. Explain it. Math sample
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