Logic · free number sequence puzzle
Next
Next is a number sequence puzzle. You see four numbers in a row and four possible next numbers. One continues the pattern. The wrong answers sit close to the right one, so guessing by size does not work.
- SkillLogic
- Ages8 and up
- Par time12 seconds
- PriceFree, no ads
How to play Next
- Look at the gaps between each pair of numbers.
- If the gaps are not the same, check whether they alternate, double or grow by a square.
- Work out the next number yourself, then find it among the options.
How it gets harder
Sequences can add the same step, multiply, alternate between two steps or follow square numbers. Higher levels use more alternating and square runs, bigger numbers and wrong answers that sit even closer.
Tips
- Write the differences in your head: 3, 5, 3, 5 means the next step is 3.
- If the numbers jump fast, try dividing instead of subtracting.
Playing Next as a family
A good bridge between school maths and play. Children learning times tables spot doubling runs quickly, and adults can explain the alternating ones.
Next is also one of the thirteen games in the Brainpilates daily mix. On days it comes up, everyone plays the same board, and you can send your result to someone as a challenge to beat.
Questions about Next
- What kinds of sequences appear?
- Adding the same number, multiplying, alternating between two steps, and square numbers.
- Is it suitable for children?
- Yes, from about eight. The first levels use small numbers and simple steps.