Tangram
Tangram is an ancient Chinese dissection puzzle where you arrange seven geometric shapes (called tans) to form figures, animals, and silhouettes. With only simple rules—use all pieces, no overlapping—the puzzle offers over 6,000 possible shapes to create, from simple squares to intricate designs.
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Sheet of paper or cardstock (letter size)($0)
- ●Scissors($0)
- ●Ruler and pencil($0)
Optional
- ○Wooden tangram set($8-15)
How To Do It
- 1
Create your tangram pieces
Start with a square piece of paper (fold a rectangular sheet diagonally and cut off the excess). Using a ruler, divide the square into the 7 tan pieces: 2 large triangles, 1 medium triangle, 2 small triangles, 1 square, and 1 . Cut along the lines carefully.
- 2
Learn the basic rules
Tangram has three simple rules: use all 7 pieces in every puzzle, keep all pieces flat on the surface, and no pieces may overlap (though they must touch). The can be flipped, which is often the key to tricky puzzles.
- 3
Solve your first puzzle
Start by recreating the original square using all 7 pieces—this teaches how the shapes fit together. Once you master the square, try simple s like a house or cat shape. Place the large triangles first to form the main outline, then fill in with smaller pieces.
- 4
Practice pattern recognition
When stuck on a puzzle, study the before moving pieces. Look for angles that match your triangles and straight edges where squares might fit. Remember that two small triangles can combine to form a square, larger triangle, or shape.
- 5
Progress to harder puzzles
Move from puzzles that show piece boundaries to solid s where you figure out placement yourself. Animal and building shapes are easier than abstract geometric patterns. Print free puzzle sheets from sites like Tangram Channel or Aunt Annie's Crafts to build your skills.
Tips
- →Common mistake: Forgetting the can be flipped. If a puzzle seems impossible, try flipping this piece over—it often reveals the solution.
- →Always place the two large triangles first. They take up the most space and determine the overall shape, making it easier to fit the remaining pieces.
- →If making your own set, use cardstock or glue paper to cereal box cardboard. Thin paper tears quickly and flimsy pieces are harder to manipulate.
- →Two small triangles can become a square, a larger triangle, or a . Recognizing these combinations helps you see new possibilities when stuck.
Communities
Resources
- Tangram Solving Tips (Gamesver)
20 tips, tricks, and strategies specifically written for tangram beginners.
- Tangram World Strategy Guide
Comprehensive guide covering pattern recognition and systematic solving approaches.
- Free Printable Tangram Templates (Kitchen Table Classroom)
Free downloadable templates with puzzle silhouettes for printing and cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn tangram?
You can solve your first simple puzzle in 5-10 minutes. Building intuition for harder s takes a few hours of practice. The beauty of tangram is that puzzles range from beginner-friendly to genuinely challenging.
Do I need to buy a tangram set?
No! You can make one from any paper in 10 minutes. Cardstock or cereal box cardboard creates more durable pieces. Wooden sets are nicer to handle but completely optional.
Why can't I solve this puzzle?
The most common issue is forgetting that the can be flipped. Also ensure you're using all 7 pieces—it's easy to leave one out. If still stuck, try placing the large triangles first to establish the main outline.
How many shapes can you make with a tangram?
Over 6,000 different shapes have been documented, including animals, people, objects, letters, and numbers. Mathematicians have proven exactly 13 s are possible.
Is tangram good for kids?
Yes, tangram develops , geometry understanding, and problem-solving skills. Research shows children who practice shape puzzles perform better on math tests. Ages 4 and up can enjoy simpler puzzles.