What is the minimum number of toothpicks necessary to spell the word ‘HAT’. (You are not allowed to break or bend any toothpicks)?
Answer: 8
Explanation
Let's consider the minimum number of toothpicks needed to form each letter:
H: 3 toothpicks (2 vertical, 1 horizontal)
A: 3 toothpicks (2 slanted, 1 horizontal, but assuming standard block letters or simplest form might slightly vary, 3 is a reasonable estimate for a simple 'A')
T: 2 toothpicks (1 vertical, 1 horizontal)
Total: 3 (H) + 3 (A) + 2 (T) = 8