What's My Rule?

Looking at the numbers,

12 ---> 18
21 ---> 27
32 ---> 38
45 ---> 51

we can see that the difference between the numbers in each pair is 6. We need to add 6 to the number on the left to get the number on the right. We can use a spreadsheet to do the computations and test our rule.

Put any of the numbers from the left side of an arrow into cell A1 and the formula =A1+6 into cell B1. The computer will compute the result of using the rule. If it isnŐt obvious what the rule is, you may use a spreadsheet to experiment. You could try out a rule and use the spreadsheet to test it.

Note: This is an example of a function. For any number you input, the rule determines exactly one output.

Make up some rules of your own for your friends to guess.


Go back to the problem. Go back to the Examples contents.
Return to main Mathematics and... page.