Back to Logic Problems
100 Prisoners and 100 Boxes
This Hard puzzle in the “logic” category rewards careful reading and step-by-step reasoning. Use the hint if you are stuck, then compare your approach with the explained answer.
There are 100 prisoners and 100 closed boxes.
Inside each box is one slip of paper with a unique number from 1 to 100.
Each prisoner enters the room alone and may open at most 50 boxes.
To survive, every prisoner must find the slip with their own number.
Before the process begins, the prisoners may agree on a strategy, but once it starts, they cannot communicate.
Is there a strategy that gives them a surprisingly good chance of success?
Preparing…