Problem 2 The six matchsticks

Problem 2 The six matchsticks
Place six matchsticks – preferably of the wooden variety – on a flat surface. Now arrange the matchsticks in a pattern of four equilateral (ie equal-sided) triangles. You may not break the matchsticks – that is the only rule. Again, you should be able to do it within three minutes. There are at least two solutions, but I want the best one.

The reason why many people cannot do the first one is that they put an unconscious or invisible framework around the dots, and try to solve the problem within it. That is impossible.
But if you break out of that self-imposed limitation, the solution to the problem is easily reached. (See ‘The nine dots’ solution below.)

12 out-of-the-box questions with sample answers
Out-of-the-box questions employers might ask during an interview can range from the unexpected to the shocking. Here are 12 examples of out-of-the-box thinking questions and answers:
1. Sell me this pen
Hiring managers might ask you to try to sell them a common object such as a pen, paperclip or coffee mug to test your ability to think quickly and, if you are applying for a sales job, your marketing skills. When responding, focus on the object's benefits rather than its physical features. Remind yourself that there is no wrong answer to this question, and respond with confidence and creativity.
Example answer: "You're in luck. This isn't an ordinary pen. While it looks normal, it's hiding an incredible secret. With just the click of this button, you can turn on and off the ability to read people's thoughts. See, you just click it like this (demonstrate the pen's clicking action), and you're given the gift of mind-reading. When you're ready to mute it, simply click it back off. How would you like to have your superpower at your literal fingertips?"


2. Describe the color blue to someone who can't see
Hiring managers might use this question to assess your communication skills, creativity and vocabulary, particularly if you are interviewing for a communication, marketing or writing job. When answering, use adjectives that describe all the other senses besides sight: sound, smell, taste and touch.

Example answer: "Blue is a serene color, like the sound of water lapping at the shores of an alpine lake. It's cool and silky smooth to the touch and smells like fresh air after rain or a soft breeze rippling through the forest. Seeing blue is like tasting chilled spring water, letting it swirl around your tongue before enjoying its refreshing hydration."