Algebra Error Detective Game
Spot algebra mistakes and select the correct replacement for a flawed step.
Choose Practice or Daily to begin.
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Instructions, device progress and accessibility
Choose Easy, Normal or Hard and select Practice or a daily puzzle based on the UTC date. Enter answers or choose a correction, then select Check answer. Hints and Undo mark a round as assisted. Best scores and progress are stored only in this browser; no account is needed.
Local progress is checked when play begins.
How to play Algebra Error Detective
A proposed algebra transformation contains a deliberate mistake. Compare the answer choices and select the correct next line. Check the answer to reveal the mathematical explanation.
Worked example
Example: 4(x + 3) ≠ 4x + 3. The correct expansion is 4x + 12 because 4 multiplies both terms. Another common error is adding instead of subtracting when isolating a variable.
Math formulas and key skills
Distribution: a(b + c) = ab + ac. Exponent rule: xᵐ × xⁿ = xᵐ⁺ⁿ. To undo adding b, subtract b on both sides.
Avoid common mistakes
Focus on the first incorrect transformation and correct it, rather than guessing from the final answer. Watch negative signs and operations on both sides of an equation.
Frequently asked questions
Which algebra errors does this game teach?
Distributive-property mistakes, sign mistakes, exponent-rule mistakes and errors when isolating an unknown.
Is the game suitable for beginners?
Yes. Start with Easy to review basic expansion and solving rules, then increase difficulty as your accuracy improves.