The Weight Puzzle-Brain teaser

Riddle 
You have 12 identical-looking balls, but one is of a different weight (heavier or lighter). You have a balance scale and can only use it three times. How do you find the odd ball?

    1. Divide the balls into three groups of four. 2. Weigh two of the groups against each other: - If they balance, the odd ball is in the third group. - If they don? balance, the odd ball is in the heavier or lighter group. 3. Take the group with the odd ball and divide it into three. Repeat the weighing process.