How to Buy Logic Puzzles for the Fanatic

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.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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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