Connect the dots

Connect the dots (also known as connect-the-dots, dot to dot, or join the dots) is a form of puzzle containing a sequence of numbered dots.[1] When a line is drawn connecting the dots the outline of an object is revealed. The puzzles frequently contain simple line art to enhance the image created or to assist in rendering a complex section of the image.

"Dot to dot" redirects here. For the annual music festival, see Dot to Dot Festival.
For other uses, see Connect the dots (disambiguation).
A partially solved connect the dots puzzle.

Connect the dots puzzles are generally created for children. The use of numbers can be replaced with letters or other symbols. Versions for older solvers frequently have extra solving steps to discover the order, such as those used in puzzlehunts[2] and the connect-the-dots crosswords invented by Liz Gorski.[3]

Other uses of the term

In adult discourse the phrase "connect the dots" can be used as a metaphor to illustrate an ability (or inability) to associate one idea with another, to find the "big picture", or salient feature, in a mass of data.[4]

The Connect the Dots drawing technique of GPS Drawing involves recording an artists GPS data only at certain points along the route. This can give the image the appearance of a dot to dot puzzle as most of the lines are straight no matter the geography of the area.

Reuven Feuerstein features the connection of dots as the first tool in his cognitive development program.

The travelling salesman problem asks what numbers to assign to a set of points to minimize the length of the drawing.

See also

References
  1. dot (definition) OED
  2. DeVincentis, Joe. "connect the dots". MIT Mystery Hunt Puzzle Index. Retrieved 31 October 2020.
  3. Gloudeman, Nikki. "People We Love: Elizabeth Gorski: New York Times Crossword Creator". Ravishly. Retrieved 31 October 2020.
  4. Manville, Brook (10 October 2015). "Network Leaders Connect The Dots To Innovate". Forbes. Retrieved 5 December 2016.
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