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Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle

Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle

Out of 4 matchstick triangles form 2 in 4 moves

The matchstick puzzle figure comprises four triangles. Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles. Each matchstick must be a part of a triangle.

Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle graphic

Recommended time to solve is 6 minutes.

Try before going through the solution.

Solution to move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle: Matchstick count analysis to get an idea about the final solution figure

The puzzle figure comprises 12 matchsticks and 4 small triangles. The solution figure must then be of two larger triangles.

Conclusion 1: The two triangles in the solution figure must then be 2-stick side larger triangles with no common side. Each triangle will need 6 matches and two triangles will be made up of 12 matches.

Solution to move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle: Structural analysis of the solution to form the first large triangle

Let's reproduce the puzzle figure with two marked sticks.

Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle two stick 1st base

The puzzle figure has a pair of marked matchsticks ideally placed in a straight line to form the base of a new 2-stick side triangle.

And with the base identified, it takes just a moment to flip the pair of double-ticked matches vertically to form the first 2-stick side triangle in 2 stick moves as shown.

Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle 1st large triangle formed

Solution to move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle: Forming the second large triangle in the same way

Take the same line of approach as in the first success to identify obliquely placed two straight sticks as the base of the second large triangle.

Rest of the two sticks are now flipped in the south east direction down to form the apex of the second large triangle. The solution with stick moves shown.

Move 4 matches to leave 2 triangles matchstick puzzle 2nd large triangle formed solution

The base sticks of the second large triangle are now marked with dots.


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