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Grid Sum Puzzle

Grid Sum – Level 1 – Medium

Other Puzzles

Each row and column must add up to the totals shown – but all the values are algebra expressions. Work out the value of x, then fill in the grid using each expression once.

Read more about how to solve these puzzles here

Available Expressions (use each exactly once):
  1. (x + 1)²
  2. (x + 3)(x - 2)
  3. (x² - 1)
  4. 3(x - 1)
  5. 4x - 2(x + 1)
  6. x² + 2x + 1
  7. x² - x + 4
  8. 5x - (x + 3)
  9. (x + 2)(x - 1)

Example Grid:
13 18 10
17
5x - (x + 3)
—
—
14
—
x² + 2x + 1
3(x - 1)
10
—
—
—

Your Workings For Grid Sum

Enter your working out in this box:

Then insert your suggested answers in the grid below:

13
18
10
17
5x - (x + 3)
14
x² + 2x + 1
3(x - 1)
10

Reveal the Answer

Reveal Answer
Additional instructions for Grid Sum (Level 1, Medium)

Grid Sum – Medium

Use elimination thinking: if a number must satisfy both its row and its column, test whether your calculation fits both constraints.

  • Calculate row requirement.
  • Check column requirement.
  • If they clash, re-examine earlier entries.

Pro tip: Medium puzzles reward patience — each correct value tightens the grid’s structure.

Full help: Grid Sum

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