People like clever. I’m not talking about snarky nor the universally disliked “smartass.” A bit of wit can go a long way, even making life easier in some cases.
To most, intelligence is impressive. In a pinch, clever thinking can get you out of a jam or even open unexpected doors.
Whether you’re Bobby Fischer clever, debate team clever, or plain old not clever, there’s always something new to learn – new ideas and clever shortcuts that can take you far in life.
Check out 40 of the cleverest moves in modern human history. Feel free to takes notes – I certainly am.
1. Six feet and up
People can’t control their physical features, unfortunately. Turns out, Sy only dates guys over 6 feet. But this guy’s response was so good that maybe he has a chance now… To be fair, she never specified whether she meant height.
2. Diploma warmth
They say your diploma won’t keep you warm at night. Well, they were wrong. This diploma’s pretty cozy. So is that couch.
3. Exchanging bites with a cobra
Cobras are royalty in the snake world. But what do you do if one bites you? You bite back of course! Unfortunately, this cobra passed away in the absurd exchange.
4. May the force be with you
Star Wars is practically an institution in American culture. The most recent trilogy had its story writing problems but still had some great moments. Now, the world’s moved on to The Mandalorian and Baby Yoda. Also, shoutout to what is obviously the greatest Star Wars film, The Empire Strikes Back. Turning a glaring issue on your phone into a Star Wars reference? Brilliant.
5. Bike thief
They say don’t fight fire with fire. But when that fire isn’t fire, feel free! She just stole her bike back, bamboozling her bandits. Would you have done the same?
6. Monkey tools
I figure that animals view zoos as traps or prisons. This monkey’s been sharpening a rock all day. But for what reason? Have you seen The Shawshank Redemption?
7. Wikipedia
Wikipedia’s probably the greatest populous online encyclopedia. Some would argue it’s the greatest encyclopedia ever created. Wikipedia, itself, would probably make that argument based on the Wikipedia entry about them. You can spend a lifetime diving deep into Wikipedia links, bouncing from topic to topic.
8. Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime is a household name for good reason. Need something? It’s probably on Amazon. With Prime, you can generally get things delivered within two days… Like this beekeeping suit. Dad, stop.
9. Listening in
The United States and Soviet Union had some pretty tense moments. But gifts are always welcome, no matter the circumstances. What a kind gesture! Well, this one ended in classic Cold War fashion…
10. iPhone fusion
Admittedly, I was a huge fan of Yu-Gi-Oh! (the show and card game) back in the day. The Polymerization card was legendary for being able to combine specific cards. Fusion monsters were pretty cool. But I’m not sure the same can be done in real life…
11. Glasses
Historically, school children with glasses have been subject to bullying. Neal won’t have any of it. His cleverness comes out in a pretty witty comeback, teasing his bullies for their foolishness. The look on their faces seems to say it all. Is cleverness the way to counter a bully?
12. Fish tank
Maybe cats just really, really hate lemons. Or maybe she’s just abnormally scared of them. The fruit’s certainly encroaching on her space. This cat doesn’t quite know how to react…
13. Dog mattress
That’s absolutely adorable. This store must be a big hit with dogs and those who have them as companions! Even dogs need comfy mattresses. This pup certainly has enough room.
14. I hate myself
Chris might have some self-esteem issues. Or at least hee certainly doesn’t mind self-deprecation. The darkness makes it so much funnier. The more money the merrier, I suppose!
15. Credit magic
Monsters, Inc. is a universally beloved Pixar classic. Some of the memes it spawned are great, too. But what do you do when a magician asks a question? Most people don’t like when you mess with their finances…
16. Genie
If you’re lucky enough to find an elusive genie, reap the rewards with three wishes. Some may squander those attempts. Others will make the most of the opportunity. Some wishes will just take you back to square one.
17. Crabs
These billboards have somewhat of a war of words going on. Remember, in the wise words of Bruce from finding nemo, “Fish are friends, not food.” The same should apply to crabs! Bruce would be ashamed of the second billboard.
18. BOGO?
Ah, this is almost classic advertising trickery. But it’s so blatant and ridiculous that it’s obviously intended as a joke. I wonder how many people have taken up this offer? I mean two burgers for the price of two is hard to pass up.
19. Free gas
Well, they did say anyone wearing a bikini… That should include this person in the high heels. Remember to expect the unexpected when it comes to free things. Honestly, free fuel sounds pretty nice.
20. Popcorn
Intense gaming requires intense tactics time-saving tactics. Those World of Warcraft raids aren’t going to complete themselves! A popcorn in a hood seems par for the course. This is peak innovation.
21. Pizza Hut
It’s such a simple request. But the customer is always right and sometimes you’ll do anything to turn a profit. It seems that Pizza Hut’s social media game isn’t half bad. That follow just earned them a bunch of profit.
22. Delayed rock, paper, scissors
Rock, paper, scissors is one of humanity’s classic games, right up there with chess. But playing on the Internet, especially within the rigid virtual walls of the Twittersphere can have its pitfalls. You go first… No, you.
23. Dress code
Some jobs require pants, but if the rules do not specifically state as much, at least things are open to interpretation. Some men don’t realize it, but dresses can be incredibly comfortable. This guy for sure knows. Instead of letting the system run over him, he protests with a dress. He got sent home for innovation.
24. Sleep cycles
According to this social media user, people are the weakest from 3 to 4:00 a.m. in the morning. Whether true or not, some people sleep until the crack of dawn to avoid this problem. It’s not worth the risk, obviously. They do say sleep is the cousin of death.
25. McDonald’s vs. Burger King
McDonald’s and Burger King have been rivals by trade for decades now. Burger King’s fully embraced the troll persona within the industry. After McDonald’s lost a key legal battle in the EU, Burger King jumped at the opportunity. The result was as juicy as their burgers.
26. Useless mask
Sometimes, some classic reverse psychology will get the job done. Maybe this will trick people into wearing a mask! Oh and that reminds me – wear a mask! It’s honestly so easy.
27. Wikipedia sources
Due to the nature of the platform, institutions don’t care for Wikipedia as a citation. But each Wikipedia page is generally full of incredible sources. Are you lacking on citations for your next essay? You can still use Wikipedia by simply researching and sourcing the page’s own citations.
28. Nudes
Some men are cavemen. While others are clever cavemen. You honestly can’t knock the hustle. It was a wonderful effort.
29. Funeral prank
This man pranked his family one last time from the grave (or coffin). This is as brilliant as it is morbid. Some may find it in poor taste while others may view it as an act of trolling genius. What do you think?
30. Hidden text hack
Everyone’s written an essay with a word requirement. The last few words can be the most challenging. It’s hard not to get into fluff territory. These are life hacks right here. Students take notes!
31. Flat-earthers
Flat-earthers are the worst. I thought we solved this whole flat Earth issue 500 years ago back in the day of Copernicus! This Twitter user’s response works on a few levels. Some conspiracy theories are completely unfounded.
32. Cheater
That’s quite the L to take for yourself. It’s self-sabotage of the highest order. Maybe someone will take notice. I hope you find someone special soon, Ariana!
33. Cat discipline
Cats aren’t known to be as obedient as dogs. Sometimes cats are a little more… apathetic. Disciplining your cat can be met with hostile resistance. This cat will have absolutely none of that nonsense.
34. Single battery
I’m not sure this would work on most machines, but this is an ingenious way to get the most out of your batteries! This battery’s incredibly clutch. The day has been saved! Now quick, buy some more batteries before this runs out of juice!
35. Microbag
A literal interpretation of the rules can lead to absurdity. Sometimes, it’s necessary to send a message. Microwaves are pretty clunky, but they might have enough space to fit schoolbooks. This is hilarious, I wonder why the school banned bags?
36. No game scheduled
NO GAME SCHEDULED might be the greatest team name ever invented. The easiest way to beat a team is to trick them into not arriving at all. I’m sure they’re universally hated in their league. But this is genius.
37. Soap bills
Revenge can often be worse than the original transgression. TShaw certainly knew how to get his parents back… This might have been a little too far, in hindsight. That’s a pretty hefty hospital bill.
38. Genie backfire
What would you do given three wishes? Would you wish for more wishes? DementedSquire7 wished for the genie to be bad at math. Well, that request certainly backfired…
39. Rest and relaxation
Some of the greatest inventions have yet to be conceived. I wish I had thought of this first. This is innovation in its purest form. Laziness is becoming perfected.
40. Laziness perfected
Some call it laziness, others call it efficiency! What’s a quicker, funner way to get recyclable materials down the stairs? This should absolutely be commended! That trashcan’s seen a lot of action…
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