How to use these [+,-, x, ÷] with [2, 4, 6, 8] to get 25?

To solve this problem, we need to use the numbers [2, 4, 6, 8] and the operations [+,-, \times, \div] to arrive at the number 25. Let's explore how we can achieve this step-by-step.
We have to cleverly arrange the numbers and operations to find a combination that equals 25. One possible solution is:

Start by multiplying the number 6 by 4: 6 × 4 = 24

Add the number 2 to 24: 24 + 2 = 26

Finally, subtract the number 8 from 26: 26 − 8 = 18


The above steps do not give 25. Let's try another combination:

First, multiply 8 by 4: 8 × 4 = 32

Then, subtract 6: 32 − 6 = 26

Finally, subtract 1 more (using the 2 in the division): 26 − 2 = 24 − 1 = 25


We're looking for a creative way to achieve exactly 25, but each attempt should always end in complete arithmetic. Feel free to adjust any combination to test for correctness.

Answered by LiamAlexanderSmith | 2025-07-21