Target Number

What is Target Number?

Target Number is a quick number puzzle: you get six numbers and a target, and you reach it by combining the numbers with additions, subtractions, multiplications and divisions. Each number is used once at most, and every result can go on into further sums.

The target can always be reached exactly, because it is built from the very numbers you get. There are three levels, from small targets to big targets built from small numbers, and every day brings a new target, the same for everyone.

How to play

Tap a number, then an operation, then another number; the two numbers go and their result takes their place.

• Operations. Addition and multiplication always work. Subtraction must give a positive number, and division must come out exact, with no remainder.
• Numbers. Each number is used once at most, but results can go into new sums. You do not need to use every number.
• Fixes. Undo takes back the last step, Start over brings back the numbers you began with, and Done finishes on the number you picked or the one nearest the target.
• Score. Your score is your time, plus a minute for every unit you miss the target by, ten at most, and 30 seconds for every hint. Every level has its own leaderboard.

Strategy tips

1. Start from the target. Look for a number close to the target that two of your numbers can make, then fix the difference with the rest.
2. Multiply with the big numbers. A big number times a small one gets you near the target fast; add or subtract to close the gap.
3. Keep small numbers for the end. A 1, 2 or 3 left over mends a small difference easily.
4. Think in factors. If the target divides by a number you hold, try building the quotient from the others.
5. Do not dig in. If a route is not working, Start over takes you back to the original numbers with no penalty.

FAQ

Is Target Number free to play?

Yes. Like every game on Play, it runs free in your browser, with no download and no account needed.

Can the target always be hit exactly?

Yes. The target is built from the numbers you get through a chain of operations, so there is always at least one way to it.

What does a hint do?

It takes the next step along a route to the target. If your route can no longer get there, the hint starts again from the original numbers. Each hint adds 30 seconds to your time.

What is the daily target?

Every day everyone gets the same numbers and the same medium target, so times compare directly on the leaderboard.

How is my score counted?

Your score is the time from the first look to the finish, plus a minute for every unit you miss the target by (ten at most) and 30 seconds for every hint. Lower is better.