Missing Number Puzzles
Missing number grid puzzles test whether you can spot a repeated number pattern and use it to fill the blank. The grids look visual, but the method is usually a steady addition or subtraction step.
The Rules Every Missing Number Grid Uses
Each puzzle uses the same missing value in several positions. Find the step between known numbers, then use that step to work into the blanks.
🔁 Rule 1: Look for a constant step
Numbers often increase or decrease by the same amount across each row and down each column.
Example: 27, 20, ? goes down by 7, so the missing number is 13.
➕ Rule 2: Addition patterns move upwards
If the numbers get larger from left to right, add the same amount each time.
Example: 2, 11, ? adds 9, so the missing number is 20.
➖ Rule 3: Subtraction patterns move downwards
If the numbers get smaller, subtract the same amount. Negative numbers can appear at the end.
Example: 33, 24, ?, 6, -3 uses a step of -9, so the missing value is 15.
✅ Rule 4: The same answer must fit every blank
The centre blank, top-right blank, and bottom-left blank should all be consistent with the same pattern.
Example: In a -7 grid, every ? position should resolve to the same number.
How to Solve Missing Number Puzzles
Three useful moves: find the step, check the opposite direction, and confirm the same answer fits each blank.
1. Count Down by a Fixed Amount
Question: Complete the grid: 27, 20, ?, then 20, ?, 6, then ?, 6, -1.
Worked Method
Step 1: Look at the first row: 27 to 20 is -7.
Step 2: Continue the same step: 20 - 7 = 13.
Step 3: Check another line: 13 - 7 = 6, then 6 - 7 = -1.
Tip: A good answer fits both across and down the grid.
2. Count Up by a Fixed Amount
Question: Complete the grid: 2, 11, ?, then 11, ?, 29, then ?, 29, 38.
Worked Method
Step 1: The first two numbers are 2 and 11, so the step is +9.
Step 2: Add 9 again: 11 + 9 = 20.
Step 3: Check the rest: 20 + 9 = 29 and 29 + 9 = 38.
Tip: The missing number can be found from the row, column, or diagonal if the pattern is consistent.
3. Do Not Ignore Negative Numbers
Question: Complete the grid: 33, 24, ?, then 24, ?, 6, then ?, 6, -3.
Worked Method
Step 1: 33 to 24 is -9.
Step 2: Continue subtracting 9: 24 - 9 = 15.
Step 3: Check the tail end: 15 - 9 = 6, and 6 - 9 = -3.
The trap: A negative number at the end does not change the rule. Keep applying the same step.
Before You Buy
Want to check the level and layout first? Download the free 3-question sample. It uses the same question style, printable format, and answer-key approach as the full pack.
Download Free Sample PDFGet the Full Practice Pack
The full Missing Number pack contains 108 grid puzzles across 3 printable test sets. Students practise addition and subtraction patterns, logical checking, and number reasoning.
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