LinkedIn Pinpoint Answer for September 20, 2025
LINKEDIN PINPOINT CLUES
September 20, 2025
Combinatorics
Topology
Calculus
Statistics
Geometry
Clue Meanings Explained
Combinatorics
This is the branch of math all about counting and arranging things. It deals with combinations and permutations—basically figuring out how many different ways you can organize a set of items or pick a group from a larger pile.
Topology
Often called "rubber-sheet geometry," this is the study of shapes and spaces. It looks at properties that stay the same even if you stretch, twist, or deform an object, as long as you don't tear it or glue parts together.
Calculus
This is the mathematical study of continuous change. It’s famous for its two main branches—derivatives (finding the rate of change) and integrals (finding the accumulation of quantities, like the area under a curve).
Statistics
This field focuses on data. It involves the collection, organization, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of large amounts of information to find patterns or make predictions.
Geometry
This is one of the oldest branches of math, focusing on the properties and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids. It’s all about the size, shape, and position of things in space.
Today’s LinkedIn Pinpoint puzzle was a real treat for anyone who spent their school days staring at a chalkboard or a graphing calculator. It took us through a journey of logic, space, and numbers. Let’s break down exactly how this puzzle unfolded and why these five specific clues pointed us toward the ultimate answer.
The Solve: A Tale of Wrong Turns
When the first clue, Combinatorics, popped up, I’ll be honest—I was thinking about Computer Science or maybe even Game Design. Combinatorics is a huge part of coding algorithms and probability in games. I almost guessed "Programming Concepts," but I decided to wait for the second clue to see if that niche path held up.
Then came Topology. This immediately pulled me away from pure computer science and moved me toward something more academic. My first "wrong" thought was actually "Geography" or "Mapping," because people often associate topology with terrain maps. However, knowing that Combinatorics and Topology are both heavy-hitters in advanced university courses, I started leaning toward "Types of Logic" or "Scientific Fields."
The third clue, Calculus, was the big turning point. As soon as that word hit the screen, the "Science" idea vanished and was replaced by "Math." But "Math" is usually too broad for Pinpoint. I had to think about what these words *are* in relation to math. I considered guessing "Math Classes," but that felt a bit too informal.
When Statistics appeared as the fourth clue, it confirmed the pattern perfectly. These weren't just random math words; they were the major pillars of the entire discipline. I was fairly certain the answer was something about the categories of mathematics.
Finally, Geometry arrived to seal the deal. It’s the most recognizable one for most people. Looking at the list—Combinatorics, Topology, Calculus, Statistics, and Geometry—it became crystal clear. These are all distinct areas of study within the broader world of math. I locked in "Subjects in mathematics" and got that satisfying green checkmark.
Lessons Learned From Today's Pinpoint Solution
Identify the "Umbrella" Term: When you see highly technical words like "Combinatorics," don't just think about what they mean—think about what "category" they all sit under. In this case, the category was academic subjects.
Don't Guess Too Early on Niche Terms: A word like Topology can mean different things in different fields (like networking vs. math). Waiting for a third clue helps you narrow down which "version" of the word the puzzle is using.
Look for Academic Hierarchy: Often, Pinpoint uses branches of a major field (like Biology, Chemistry, Physics). Recognizing that these are all "Branches" or "Subjects" of a main topic is a key strategy for solving academic-themed puzzles.
Distinguish Between Tools and Subjects: While these could be "Math Tools," they are more accurately defined as "Subjects" because they represent entire fields of study rather than just a single formula or instrument.
Expert Q&A
Why was "Mathematics" alone likely not the answer?
** Pinpoint usually looks for a specific relationship between the clues. While all the clues are related to math, the clues themselves are specific sub-fields. Using the word "Subjects" or "Branches" describes the *relationship* between the words more accurately than just naming the general topic.
Is Topology really different from Geometry?
** Yes, in the world of math subjects! While Geometry cares about exact measurements, angles, and distances, Topology only cares about the "shape" in a very flexible way. For example, to a topologist, a coffee mug and a donut are the same shape because they both have exactly one hole.
Could "Advanced Math" have been a valid answer?
** It’s possible, but "Subjects in mathematics" is more inclusive. While Calculus and Topology are advanced, Statistics and Geometry are often introduced quite early in school, so "Advanced" might have been too narrow of a descriptor.
How does Combinatorics fit with Statistics?
** They are very closely linked! Combinatorics provides the tools to count possibilities, which is the foundation of probability. Statistics then uses that probability to analyze data. That’s why you often see them grouped together in college course catalogs.
What is the best way to handle a clue you've never heard of, like Combinatorics?
** If you hit a clue that feels like a foreign language, don't panic. Pinpoint is designed so that the clues usually get "easier" or more common as you go. Even if you don't know the first two clues, the final three (Calculus, Statistics, Geometry) are usually enough to lead you to the right answer.