Matchsticks: move one match to fix the equation
Matchstick puzzles online: a wrong sum is written with matchsticks; move a single match to make it right.
Play MatchsticksFree, zero ads, no sign-up, on mobile and desktop.
How to play
Tap a match to pick it up, then an empty spot (dotted) to put it down: a digit or the sign changes. When the sum is right, the next puzzle comes. At expert and hardcore levels you move two. Fastest wins.
Example
The vertical bar of the + completes the 5 into a 9: the + becomes −, and 9 − 7 = 2. A single match moved.
Tips to get better
- Think of neighbouring digits: adding a match turns 5 into 6 or 9, 0 into 8, and 3 into 9.
- Don't forget the sign: removing the vertical bar of + makes a −, and frees a match.
- Misplaced a match? Put it somewhere else, or tap “Start over” to get the original sum back.
What this game trains
- Logical reasoning: deduce the solution from the rules, without guessing.
- Mental arithmetic: calculate in your head, fast and right.
Levels
Easy · Hard · Expert · Hardcore — each level has its own leaderboard.
Challenge your friends
At the end of a game, send your score as a link: your friend plays exactly the same game and you compare your times. There is also a daily challenge and tournaments.