How big a table do you need for your jigsaw puzzle?
Abstract
Jigsaw puzzles are typically labeled with their finished area and number of pieces. With this information, is it possible to estimate the area required to lay each piece flat before assembly? We derive a simple formula based on two-dimensional circular packing and show that the unassembled puzzle area is 3 times the assembled puzzle area, independent of the number of pieces. We perform measurements on 9 puzzles ranging from 333 cm2 (9 pieces) to 6798 cm2 (2000 pieces) and show that the formula accurately predicts realistic assembly scenarios.
Turn this paper into a full lesson
ArcXiv compiles a staged curriculum from this paper: 8-12 lessons across beginner → advanced, synthesised section guides, visuals, flashcards, a quiz, exercises, and on-demand deep dives per section. Grounded in the abstract, never invented.