Class 8 Kashmiri Student Cracks Magic Square Puzzle with New Formula
Faizan Ali Mir Develops Simplified Method for Solving Mathematical Grid Game
Invention Wins Praise from Math Lecturer for Its Elegance and Utility
Young Innovator From Habba Kadal Shows Promise in Mathematical Research
New Formula Makes Solving Magic Squares Accessible to All
Srinagar, June 1, KNT: In a remarkable achievement, a Class 8 student from Srinagar has devised a mathematical formula that simplifies the process of solving the classic magic square puzzle—an age-old grid-based math game where the numbers in each row, column, and diagonal all sum to the same total.
Faizan Ali Mir, son of Showkat Ali Mir and a resident of Chinkral Mohalla, Habba Kadal, is currently a student at Saint Paul’s International Academy. His curiosity and passion for numbers led him to explore new ways of tackling the magic square, ultimately culminating in a formula that can be applied to solve squares of any order with ease.
Speaking to KNT, Faizan explained that his method offers a systematic approach to determining the necessary entries to complete the square—something that often took excessive time or trial and error. His formula simplifies the process significantly and allows for quicker solutions using any range of natural numbers.
Mathematics Lecturer Shahbaz Hakbari, who has reviewed and recognized the formula, praised Faizan’s contribution. “What this young student has done is take an existing concept and expand it meaningfully. The formula has been generalized and refined, making it accessible to anyone—whether a student or a math enthusiast,” he said.
Faizan’s breakthrough not only highlights his talent but also signals the untapped potential among young minds in the Valley. His work has already begun to inspire interest in recreational mathematics among his peers and educators alike. [KNT]
