Solving logic puzzles

LOGIC puzzles provide a list of clues, before asking you a question that requires the use of the clues to help answer it. Many come with a grid to help you solve them, but making your own is also easy if required.

Many logic problems ask you to match multiple categories together. Typically, these have a description or a list of facts that describes a group of people, or houses, or other objects. The question usually has to do with matching two categories together.

Read the puzzle carefully and make a list of basic information. Sometimes, the puzzle will already give you a list of the basic information that makes up the puzzle. Otherwise, keep an eye out for the word ‘each’: that often tells you which categories are important. For example, ‘each person brought a different dessert’ tells you that you need a list of people and a list of desserts.

Next, make a list along the side and top of a table, allowing you to cross match each element. Cross out the grid squares that you do not need, and then re-read the question. Look also for clues that contain hidden information. Check which squares match, delivering the ultimate answers you require.

1 On each row place a letter that can be substituted for the second letter of the given word, so that another word is formed. When completed, the name of an Irish town can be read downwards. What is it?

2 Using only the numbers and signs given, create an equation where both sides are equal. This may require some lateral thinking!

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