The Answer: 3y = 27

At first glance, this looks tricky, but it’s actually a simple algebra problem.

Step 1: Start with the equation

3y − y = 18

Step 2: Combine like terms

Since 3y − y = 2y, the equation becomes:

2y = 18

Step 3: Solve for y

Divide both sides by 2:

y = 9

Step 4: Find 3y

Multiply both sides by 3:

3y = 3 × 9 = 27

Final Answer: 27

Many people answer 18 because they stop after reading the first equation. Others answer 9 because they only solve for y and forget the actual question.

The puzzle doesn’t ask for y—it asks for 3y.

Correct Answer: 27