logic · speed · 1–3 minutes
Make the Number
Combine numbers with + − × ÷ to hit the target.
Start at
> Level 1: Four tiles, + and −, targets up to 40
No runs yet
How to play
- 01You get a handful of number tiles and a target to make.
- 02Pick a tile, pick an operation, then pick a second tile. The two become their result, which you can keep combining.
- 03Hit the target with as many or as few tiles as you like. Spare tiles are fine.
- 04Numbers stay whole and positive: subtraction never goes below zero, and division only works when it comes out exactly.
- 05Undo steps back a combination. Clearing a level without undoing is perfect.
- 06From level 61 every tile has to go into the answer, so the target must be the last tile standing.
- 07You have three lives. Running out of time costs one and deals a fresh level.
- 08On a keyboard: arrows move, Space picks a tile, + − x ÷ choose an operation, and Backspace undoes.
Levels
- 1–20 · Beginner
- Four tiles, + and −, targets up to 40
- 21–40 · Focused
- Five tiles, × arrives, targets up to 120
- 41–60 · Sharp (Plus)
- Six tiles, ÷ arrives, targets up to 250
- 61–80 · Expert (Plus)
- Five tiles and every one must be used
- 81+ · Master (Plus)
- Six awkward tiles, all used, targets up to 800
About
Make the Number is the Countdown numbers round, dealt fresh every level. The target is built from the tiles you're given, so there is always a way there, usually more than one.
Levels start with four tiles and only + and −. Multiplication arrives at 21, division at 41, and from 61 the puzzle tightens: every tile must be used.
Every deal is checked before you see it, and any where two tiles already make the target is thrown away.
Tips
- > Look at the target's size first. A big one usually wants a multiplication early.
- > Work backwards: what would you need alongside a tile you have to land exactly on the target?
- > Division is picky, so scan for pairs that divide evenly before you commit to them.
- > Getting near is progress. Combine the rest into the small difference you still need.
- > Undo is free apart from the clock, so try the promising route first.
FAQ
Is every level possible?
Yes. The target is made from the tiles in the deal, so there is always at least one way. When time runs out, one way is shown.
Why won't it let me subtract?
Numbers stay whole and positive here. 4 − 9 and 7 ÷ 2 aren't allowed, so tiles those would need are dimmed once you pick the operation.
Do I have to use every tile?
Not until level 61. Before that, spare tiles are fine. From 61 the target has to be the last tile left.
Is it free?
Yes. Every level is free to play in your browser, with no account and nothing to download.