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Move 3 matches to form 6 squares matchstick puzzle

Move 3 matches to form 6 squares matchstick puzzle

A not so hard six squares matchstick puzzle

In the puzzle figure, move 3 matches to form 6 squares. Each matchstick in the solution should be a part a square. Give it a try. It is not a hard puzzle.

Move 3 matches to form 6 squares matchstick puzzle graphic

Recommended time to solve 10 minutes.

Try before going through the solution.

Solution to move 3 matches to form 6 squares puzzle: Count of square creation and destruction analysis

First thing that strikes me is the difference of only one between number of matchsticks to be moved and number of squares to be reduced. Moving 3 matches 2 squares are to be reduced.

Conclusion 1: This is inevitable that by the three matches moved a new square is to be formed.

That means,

Conclusion 2: Each moved stick must destroy one and only one square.

Also,

Conclusion 3: Two of the moved sticks must not create any hanging stick, but one of the three must create one hanging stick that will be used as the base of the new square formed.

Our job is now well-defined to identifying three such matchsticks two of which will destroy one and only one square creating no hanging stick. And one moved stick will destroy a square leaving also a hanging stick.

It is easy to identify the sticks to be moved as well as the unique solution.

The solution with stick moves shown.

Move 3 matches to form 6 squares matchstick puzzle solution

Can there be any other solution?

Yes, there can be only one other solution if you choose as the base of the new square to be formed as the top horizontal stick of the rightmost top row square.


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