At first glance, this puzzle looks like a simple math problem, but it quickly gets people second-guessing themselves. With three scales, a few school supplies, and the claim that “99% of people get it wrong,” it’s easy to overthink the answer. The challenge is to solve it step by step using the clues shown on each scale.
The first scale shows three identical pencils weighing a total of 150, so each pencil weighs 50. The second scale shows one pencil and one notepad with a combined weight of 350. Since the pencil weighs 50, the notepad must weigh 300. This gives us the values needed to solve the final part of the puzzle.
The third scale shows the notepad together with a pair of scissors weighing 450 in total. Because the notepad weighs 300, subtracting that amount from 450 leaves 150. Therefore, the scissors weigh 150 units.
This brain teaser is a great reminder that careful reasoning is more effective than rushing to an answer. By solving each clue one step at a time, the correct solution becomes obvious. Share the puzzle with friends and see how many of them can work out that the scissors weigh 150.
