1. Make both sides equal
Move one match in VI = IV.
Reveal answer
Move the I from VI to the front: IV = IV.
Printable visual reasoning
Matchstick challenges
Try six move-the-match problems. Use real matches only with appropriate supervision, or draw the lines on paper.
2. Correct the reversed equation
Move one match in IX = XI.
Reveal answer
Move the I from XI to the left of X: IX = IX.
3. Three squares from four
Draw a 2 × 2 grid of four equal squares. Move two outside matches to leave exactly three equal squares.
Reveal answer
Move the two matches forming one outer corner and use them to complete a third square attached to the remaining pair.
4. Change subtraction to addition
Move one match in XI − I = XI.
Reveal answer
Move the I from the first XI and place it vertically across the minus: X + I = XI.
5. Make the triangle point down
Arrange ten counters or matches as a four-row triangle pointing up. Move three corner pieces so it points down.
Reveal answer
Move the top piece below the base and move the two end pieces of the bottom row to the new upper corners.
6. Rebalance the equation
Move one match in XI + I = X.
Reveal answer
Move the I from the first XI to the right-hand X: X + I = XI.