Can you solve it? Is “yes” the answer to this question?

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"Engaging Logic Puzzles Featuring Aliens Challenge Readers' Reasoning Skills"

Can you solve it? Is “yes” the answer to this question? analysis cover image The Guardian 8.5
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2025/jun/23/can-you-solve-it-is-yes-the-answer-to-this-question
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AI Analysis Average Score: 8.5
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TruthLens AI Summary

In a playful exploration of logic puzzles, the article presents a series of intriguing challenges set on a fictional planet inhabited by two types of aliens: Cricks and Goops. These aliens are identical in appearance but have distinct ways of communicating. Cricks can only ask questions that have a 'yes' answer, while Goops can only pose questions that elicit a 'no' response. The article invites readers to engage with these puzzles by asking questions such as whether one could meet a person who asks, 'Am I a Goop?' and what the implications of such a question would be. The puzzles not only test the reader's logical reasoning but also highlight the peculiarities of the aliens' communication styles, prompting deeper thought about the nature of questioning and answers in this unique context.

Additionally, the article provides a glimpse into the organization behind these puzzles, We Solve Problems, which is a charity dedicated to fostering a love for mathematics among young people. The charity organizes free math circles for students in the UK and has been actively promoting mathematical problem-solving through various initiatives, including 'maths battles.' The author encourages readers to think critically about the questions posed and to refrain from sharing answers prematurely, creating a sense of community and engagement around the puzzles. This blend of entertainment and education underscores the importance of logical thinking and problem-solving skills, making it a valuable resource for both students and puzzle enthusiasts alike.

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Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2025/jun/23/can-you-solve-it-is-yes-the-answer-to-this-question

For readers who answered “yes”, you are correct.

For readers who answered “no”, you are also correct.

(I hope no one answered “maybe”.)

A similar logic applies to today’s puzzles. Am I the kind of person who would set you such a challenge? Absolutely!

A questionable planet

A certain planet is inhabited by two kinds of alien, Cricks and Goops. Both types of alien – who are physically identical – have a strange way of speaking. They only ask questions. Cricks can only ask questions whose answer is yes, while Goops can only ask questions whose answer is no.

  1. Could you meet a person inhabiting this planet who asks you “Am I a Goop?”

  2. You meet two friends, Katja and Anja. Katja once asked Anja “Is at least one of us a Goop?” What are Katja and Anja?

  3. You overhear a conversation between two people. One of them asks “Am I the kind that could ask you whether there is a wizard on this planet?”. What are the chances that there is a wizard on the planet?

  4. You later learn that there is exactly one wizard on this planet of Cricks and Goops. You would like to find out who that is. You meet an alien called Andrew. He asks you “Am I the kind that could ask whether I am not the wizard?” Do you have enough information to tell for sure who the wizard is by now?

  5. A strange alien asks you “Am I the kind who could ask you the question I am now asking?” What can be said about her?

I’ll be back at 5pm UK with the solutions. PLEASE NO SPOILERS. Instead ask questions in the comments that are true whether or not the answers are yes or no.

Today’s puzzles were devised byWe Solve Problems, a fantastic charity that describes itself as a “social club for maths-loving kids.” WSP runs free maths circles for secondary school students (UK years 7 to 11) in nine cities in the UK. If you want to sign up for the next academic yearyou can apply here.

We Solve Problems also organises “maths battles”, whichI wrote about in 2022

I’ve been setting a puzzle here on alternate Mondays since 2015. I’m always on the look-out for great puzzles. If you would like to suggest one,email me.

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Source: The Guardian