In one go, this image might look pretty simple, but is it? The grid is filled with black dots, but if you stare for a little longer, the brain begins to play tricks on you.This illusion works because of how the brain interprets different sizes, shapes, color, depths, and spacing. The varying size of the circles confuses the perception, often tricking the mind into missing two or one circle altogether. What might seem obvious at first is a clever trap for visual processing. This imbalance in visual weight tricks the brain into either skipping over or double-counting a dot.
How to approach it?
- Take a moment. Look at the image carefully; don’t rush.
- Cover sections with your finger to isolate each area.
- Count each distinct circle without overlapping in your mind
- Double-check by outlining mentally or on paper
- That’s it, right there. You have found it!
- Think the number is clear? Think again.
So how many did you count? 5? 6?. The real number may surprise you, that is exactly why illusions are like this and not just for entertaining.
Types of optical illusions
There are three main types of optical illusions:Literal Illusions: These occur when the brain combines elements of an image to create something that doesn’t exist. For example, an image might look like two faces or a vase depending on how you interpret it.Physiological Illusions: These are caused by overstimulation of the visual system, such as excessive exposure to light, movement, or color. They can create effects like afterimages or motion illusions.Cognitive Illusions: These rely on how the brain subconsciously interprets information. Examples include illusions like the Müller-Lyer illusion, where lines appear longer or shorter due to surrounding shapes.
