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2 3 9 12 = 24: 2 solutions

Difficulty: HardOpen in Solver

12 − 2 × (3 − 9) = 24

  1. 3 − 9 = -6
  2. 2 × -6 = -12
  3. 12 − -12 = 24

2 solutions

  • 12 + 2 × (9 − 3) = 24Steps
    1. 9 − 3 = 6
    2. 2 × 6 = 12
    3. 12 + 12 = 24

Solving hints

  • Build a factor pair: split the four numbers into two groups and try to make a factor pair of 24 — 3 × 8, 4 × 6, or 12 × 2 — then multiply the two groups.

  • No factor pair divides cleanly? Switch to sums: make two numbers add up to 24, or try shapes like (a ± b) × (c ± d) and (a + b + c) × d.

FAQ

Can 2 3 9 12 make 24?

Yes. Every one of them is listed above with step-by-step working.

How many solutions does 2 3 9 12 have?

2 — the list above is exhaustive, so every mathematically distinct way to combine the numbers is shown.

How difficult is 2 3 9 12?

It is rated “Hard” on our four-tier scale, based on whether whole-number intermediate steps suffice, how many distinct solutions exist, and whether the hand includes a two-digit card (10–13).