Only five percent of people can solve this 'impossible' candle riddle - but it's actually easy

This challenging riddle is more simple than you may think - but the majority of people will admit defeat before solving it. You'll need a sharp mind and the IQ of a genius to be able to see through the tricky question

Brits have been left scratching their head with this baffling brainteaser - but it's actually really simple.

The key to this 'impossible' puzzle, which only five per cent of people can actually solve, is to not over think. You'll also need a sharp mind and the IQ of a mini Einstein to not make the error most trip over. Tasks like these are a great way to entertain the kids when they refuse to go out and play in the rain, and are a life-saver when it comes to those gruelling commutes on the train.

However, brainteasers have also been shown to positively impact the central nervous system, leading to benefits including improved attention span and better concentration. You may also notice an endorphin rush when you finally get the answer right! "There are five candles in a church," the riddle reads. "At night, three male thieves and two female thieves appear. Only males carry candles. How many candles are there?"

We're not giving you any clues or help on this one: you're on your own. Luckily, you're not racing against the clock so you can take your time and re-read the riddle. Giving up already, or reckon you've finally cracked it? Scroll down to the bottom of the article for the answer. If that riddle was no match for a genius like yourself, it's time to ramp things up a little with this baffling puzzle. Created by the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) you'll need to have the intellect and analytical skills of a top spy to solve this one.

So, put you James Bond thinking caps on and get ready to save the world from evil. All you need to do is work out which of the following words or phrases is the odd one out? Again, we're not giving any clues for this but you're under no time pressure, so take a breath and get to work. Think you've solved it, or wanting to admit defeat already? Click here to reveal the answer.

• Catwoman
• Deus Ex Machina
• Parishioner
• Pyromania
• Scuba

ANSWER: Eight. Nobody said that the thieves had taken any candles, just that they were carrying them. Add their three to those already in the church (5 + 3) to get the answer. Up for another mental challenge? Check out our collection of brainteasers, puzzles, and riddles here. Or, learn more about the hidden parts of your personality by trying a mind-boggling optical illusion.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk for a chance to be featured