<p>Over the past week, I’ve been learning how to solve the rubik’s cube, and I was wondering how much it helps critical thinking. It seems as though psychologists are always saying that people need to do some sort of brain game to increase brain activity. So, my question is: what brain game (e.g. sudoku, rubik’s etc.) is the most effective for improving critical thinking?</p>
<p>I can do a rubiks cube in 40 seconds (w/ algorithms of course.) I’ll admit it does take some critical thinking and helps to be smart. IE: Higher intelligence equals quicker reaction times, quicker recall of algorithms, and better ability of memorization of new algs, but overall if you want a brain challenge go with sodoku.</p>
<p>Rubik’s cube has nothing to do with critical thinking. To solve it in less than a minute, you memorize a set of patterns. It’s kind of like reciting the alphabet. (My friend uses a cheat sheet to solve his rubik’s cube when he can’t remember which side to turn.)
I don’t think those “critical thinking” games are that effective. (Personally, I hate sudoku, but some people will buy an entire book filled with sudoku problems and sit there for hours trying to complete a single page. I’ve never seen a bigger waste of time.)</p>
<p>It probably helps you think through hard problems on tests…using logic and all…</p>