Editing Recreational mathematics (section)

{{short description|Form of entertainment in mathematics}}
{{Math topics TOC}}
'''Recreational mathematics''' is [[mathematics]] carried out for [[recreation]] (entertainment) rather than as a strictly research-and-application-based professional activity or as a part of a student's formal education. Although it is not necessarily limited to being an endeavor for [[List of amateur mathematicians|amateurs]], many topics in this field require no knowledge of advanced mathematics. Recreational mathematics involves [[mathematical puzzle]]s and [[Mathematical games|games]], often appealing to children and untrained adults and inspiring their further study of the subject.<ref>Kulkarni, D. [http://www.matholympiad.info/Documents/TeachingWithKenKen.pdf Enjoying Math: Learning Problem Solving With KenKen Puzzles] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130801080339/http://www.matholympiad.info/Documents/TeachingWithKenKen.pdf |date=2013-08-01 }}, a textbook for teaching with KenKen Puzzles.</ref>

The [[Mathematical Association of America]] (MAA) includes recreational mathematics as one of its seventeen [[Mathematical Association of America#Special Interest Groups|Special Interest Groups]], commenting:
{{Blockquote|Recreational mathematics is not easily defined because it is more than mathematics done as a diversion or playing games that involve mathematics. Recreational mathematics is inspired by deep ideas that are hidden in puzzles, games, and other forms of play. The aim of the SIGMAA on Recreational Mathematics (SIGMAA-Rec) is to bring together enthusiasts and researchers in the myriad of topics that fall under recreational math. We will share results and ideas from our work, show that real, deep mathematics is there awaiting those who look, and welcome those who wish to become involved in this branch of mathematics.<ref>[https://www.maa.org/community/sigmaas Special Interest Groups of the MAA] Mathematical Association of America</ref>}}

Mathematical competitions (such as those sponsored by [[Mathematical Association|mathematical association]]s) are also categorized under recreational mathematics.