Puzzle Corner Archives at MIT Technology Review: A Legacy of Engaging Puzzles Since 1966
MIT Technology Review continues to celebrate the rich tradition of the Puzzle Corner, a popular feature that has been challenging and entertaining readers for nearly six decades. Established by Allan Gottlieb ’67 in 1966, Puzzle Corner first appeared in the MIT student-run magazine Tech Engineering News before becoming a staple of Technology Review from the summer of 1966 onward.
A Timeless Tradition of Brain Teasers
Allan Gottlieb, who edited Puzzle Corner for an impressive 58 years, fostered a vibrant community of puzzle enthusiasts through the column. His tenure as editor concluded with the July/August 2024 issue, marking the end of an era. Over the decades, Puzzle Corner has featured a diverse array of problems, from recreational mathematics to logic puzzles, maintaining its appeal among alumni, students, and puzzle lovers worldwide.
Recent and Upcoming Issues
The most recent editions of Puzzle Corner have been guest edited by esteemed MIT alumni, ensuring the column’s continued vitality and diversity. Highlights include:
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July/August 2025
Guest edited by Edward Faulkner ’03 -
May/June 2025
Guest edited by Frank Rubin ’62 -
March/April 2025
Guest edited by Michael S. Branicky ’03 -
January/February 2025
Guest edited by Dan Katz ’03 -
November/December 2024
Guest edited by Edward Faulkner ’03 -
September/October 2024
Guest edited by Mark Douma ’63 and Frank Rubin ’62 -
July/August 2024
Marked the farewell issue of Allan Gottlieb as Puzzle Corner Editor Emeritus
Extensive Back Catalog Available Online
For aficionados eager to explore the full history of the column, back issues dating from its inception in 1966 up through 2022 are accessible online at cs.nyu.edu/~gottlieb/tr. This extensive archive offers an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the evolution of puzzles and problem-solving cultures at MIT.
Tradition Meets Innovation at MIT Technology Review
MIT Technology Review, founded in 1899 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is an independent media company renowned for its insightful analysis and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies and their societal impacts. By maintaining features like Puzzle Corner, it continues to engage its readership beyond technology news, reinforcing a culture of curiosity and intellectual challenge.
Connecting with MIT Technology Review
Readers interested in staying current with Puzzle Corner and other features can subscribe to MIT Technology Review newsletters. The publication also offers various opportunities for advertisers to reach a sophisticated audience keen on technological advancements and innovation.
For more information, archives, and subscription details, visit the official MIT Technology Review website.
Published by the MIT Alumni News Staff
Date: June 25, 2025