How to Buy Logic Puzzles for the Fanatic

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

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In "The Sign of the Four," Sherlock Holmes declares, "When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth." Thus began the popularization of the logic puzzle - the presentation of a seemingly impossible set of facts that require the puzzler to isolate the solution through logical elimination of possibilities. Here's how to buy for the Sherlock Holmes in your life.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Logic Puzzles
Child Life Subscription
Games Subscription
Puzzler's Magazine Subscriptions

Step1

Figure out what level the gift recipient is at. Logic puzzles progress from the basic to the nearly impossible, some requiring many hours of analysis and careful thinking. To a beginner, a too-difficult puzzle will be discouraging; to an expert, a beginner's puzzle will seem like an insult. Snoop around if necessary - check out his or her desk or bookshelf.

Step2

Consider your puzzler's interests. Logic puzzles are situational puzzles - they tell stories, and the narrative can make or break a puzzler's interest. Is your puzzler entranced by pirates? Captivated by magic? Look for puzzles that will tap into another interest.

Step3

Consider your puzzler's logistical limitations. Does he or she have a computer? Or is a portable puzzle preferred? If the puzzler is elderly or shortsighted, a large-print puzzle may be a wonderfully thoughtful gift.

Step4

Identify something new to your puzzler and buy with that in mind. Logic puzzles may seem an obscure hobby to the uninitiated, but there are thousands of them out there.

Step5

Consider a book of tips for solving logic puzzles - or a manual for writing your own.

Tips & Warnings

A magazine subscription may be the perfect solution. For serious puzzlers, a new set that arrives reliably each month is a real thrill. Check drugstore counters, newsstands and grocery stores to see what's out there. Choose one, buy a subscription in your puzzler's name - then wrap up the current issue for him or her.

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