If you’ve already been won over to the simple beauty of a correctly applied and aptly resolved mathematical problem, you don’t need any further explanation for how math can be used recreationally. You may already know just how enjoyable it is to seek out and solve problems in a structured format that isn’t being shoved down your throat by a teacher. If you are a part of that crowd, or are interested in joining it, here are a few ways to spend some time having fun with math.
Cut the Knot is one site that offers a number of different games and learning tools for users who are interested in devouring more knowledge. While the site features some fun tools for people who are getting involved in simple geometry and arithmetic, the truly fascinating portion of the site resides elsewhere. A few sections of note include the following.
“Eye Openers” are visual exercises that challenge you to accomplish tasks as efficiently as possible. Here, games like the chocolate bar breaker force you to break apart a rectangular bar of sweets into the correct number of segments with as few total breaks as possible. Pattern finding equations that translate numbers into words and letters, geometrical games that force you to mimic lines, and other visual games all prompt users to learn through entertaining application.
The “Social Sciences” section takes practical application to a new level. By walking you through stories which take real life problems, including some significant historic story based issues, these games show the real value of math in the real world. Practical application rarely has such a sense of reward as when you save the (imaginary) world with them.
The Fallacies section is great for those who love neck deep conundrums. It features a number of paradoxes, and prompts users to use math to find appropriate solutions, or explore alternative solutions or presentation methods which fix the fallacy appropriately.
There are other sites with great games, too, but Cut the Knot is one of the most stable and long lasting out there. We encourage you to explore these and other options.