What this tool does and when to use it
Daily Target is a free number puzzle game with three new puzzles every day. You combine six numbers with addition, subtraction, multiplication and division to reach a target number, using each number once. An exact answer earns 3 stars, within 5 earns 2 and within 10 earns 1. Your streak is saved on your device, there is nothing to download, and every puzzle can be solved exactly.
How to play Daily Target
- Pick a puzzle. Choose Easy, Medium or Hard. Each one has six numbers and a target.
- Tap a number, a sign, then another number. For example tap 8, then +, then 75. The two numbers are replaced by the answer, 83.
- Keep combining. Use the new number in later sums. You do not have to use all six numbers.
- Hit the target or get close. An exact answer ends the puzzle with 3 stars. If you get stuck, press Done to score your closest number.
- Share your stars. Copy your result to send to friends. It shows your stars, never your answer.
Yesterday's puzzles and solutions
Yesterday's puzzles and one way to solve each appear here.
There is usually more than one way to reach the target, so your answer may be different and just as good.
The rules
- You get six numbers and a target.
- Combine any two numbers with +, −, × or ÷. The answer replaces them and can be used again.
- Each starting number can be used once. You don't have to use all six.
- Every result must be a whole number above zero, so 7 ÷ 2 or 3 − 8 are not allowed.
- Every puzzle can be solved exactly. We build each one from a real solution before you see it.
How scoring works
| Your closest number | Stars |
|---|---|
| Exactly the target | 3 stars |
| 1 to 5 away | 2 stars |
| 6 to 10 away | 1 star |
| More than 10 away | No stars, try again tomorrow |
There are three puzzles a day, so the best possible day is 9 stars. Play at least one puzzle each day to keep your streak going.
The three levels
| Level | Numbers | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Easy | Six numbers from 1 to 10 | 20 to 99 |
| Medium | One of 25, 50, 75 or 100, plus five small numbers | 101 to 399 |
| Hard | Two of 25, 50, 75 or 100, plus four small numbers | 401 to 999 |
A worked example
Say the numbers are 3, 5, 6, 8, 25 and 75 and the target is 418.
- Find a multiple close to the target. 418 is a little over 400, and 5 × 83 = 415 is very close.
- Make the 83: 75 + 8 = 83.
- Multiply: 83 × 5 = 415.
- Close the gap: 415 + 3 = 418. Exact, 3 stars, using only four of the six numbers.
Tips to hit the target more often
- Work backwards. Look at what the target is near. 418 is near 400, 420 and 425, and each of those suggests a multiplication.
- Multiply first, adjust last. Get within about 10 with a multiplication, then use small numbers to close the gap.
- Make the number you need. If you need a 9 and don't have one, 6 + 3 or 10 − 1 will do.
- Save a small number. Keeping a 1, 2 or 3 spare makes the final adjustment easy.
- Use Undo freely. Trying a route and backing out costs nothing until you press Done.
Why a daily math puzzle is good for you
Mental arithmetic keeps number skills sharp, and a short daily puzzle is an easy habit to keep. Because everyone gets the same puzzles each day, you can compare stars with friends and family without giving away the answer.
Want another challenge? Try the IQ style reasoning test or check your typing speed.
