Can You Solve This Math Problem That Left Thousands Stumped?

This problem has two possible solutions, so whether your answer is, you’ve solved this math problem correctly.:
Solution #1:
Add the solution of the previous equation to the numbers on the next line:
1 + 4 = 5
5 + 2 + 5 = 12
12 + 3 + 6 = 21
Here’s what we get: 21 + 8 + 11 = 40.
So, if you follow this method, your answer will be 40.

Solution #2:
Now try to multiply the numbers as shown below:
1 + (4 × 1) = 5
2 + (5 × 2) = 12
3 + (6 × 3) = 21
Here’s what we get: 8 + (8 × 11) = 96.
The answer is: 96

Whether your answer is 40 or 96, you’ve solved it. Great job!