text: how many pieces of a regular round cake can you get with four straight cuts? for example with 3 cuts, we can get a maximum of 8 pieces.  (two cuts to get quarters and one cut horizontally across to get 8 pieces.)  so, what is the maximum number of pieces with 4 cuts. note that the pieces need not be the same size.  for the mathemtically savvy, you can provide a general solution. i can do 14.  the first three cuts form a triangle in the middle, which is surrounded by pieces on each corner, and each side.  that makes seven pieces.  then cut the cake in half lengthwise, and serve!