At first glance, this might look like one of the simplest puzzles you’ve ever seen. A few straight lines, a couple of squares… and a challenge: “Solve this if you are a genius!”
The question is straightforward:
If one square grid equals 5, how many squares are in the larger 3×3 grid?
Sounds easy, right? But here’s the twist—this riddle isn’t about basic math or geometry. It’s about observation, pattern recognition, and how carefully you count what’s right in front of you.
Before we dive into the explanation, take a moment. Look at the image. How many squares do you see? Write down your guess, then read on to see if you’ve cracked the code—or fallen for one of the most common traps.
Why Most People Get This Puzzle Wrong
Believe it or not, most people give the wrong answer on their first try. Why? Because they make one or more of the following mistakes:
- They only count the smallest visible squares
Many viewers just count the individual boxes and miss the combined ones formed by joining smaller squares. - They ignore overlapping or larger squares
It’s easy to overlook that several small squares can create medium or large ones if you combine them. - They rely too much on logic instead of visuals
Some people try to “solve” the puzzle by guessing a numerical pattern instead of observing the actual grid.
Let’s solve it the right way—step by step.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Count the Squares
We’re told that the first image, a basic 2×2 grid (which is just four small squares and the big one around them), equals 5 squares. That gives us a clue about how to approach the larger 3×3 grid.
Now let’s examine the 3×3 grid in detail.
Step 1: Count the Smallest Squares
There are 3 rows and 3 columns, giving us:
3 × 3 = 9 small squares
Easy so far.
Video : How many squares in this picture!! Mind Game🤔
Step 2: Count the 2×2 Squares
A 2×2 square is made of 4 small squares. In a 3×3 grid, there are multiple positions where a 2×2 square can fit.
- You can fit a 2×2 square starting from positions:
- Top-left
- Top-middle
- Middle-left
- Middle-middle
So that’s 4 medium squares.
Step 3: Count the Largest Square
This is the full 3×3 grid itself—one big square made up of all 9 small squares.
That’s 1 large square.
Step 4: Total All Squares
Let’s add them all together:
- Small squares: 9
- 2×2 medium squares: 4
- 3×3 large square: 1
Total = 9 + 4 + 1 = 14 squares
But wait—did we get everything?
Not quite. There’s another layer.
Step 5: Look for Hidden or Overlapping Squares
Let’s go back to the logic from the first grid. That simple 2×2 square structure was equal to 5, which means:
- 4 small squares
- 1 large square (formed by the outer lines)
So in the 3×3 version, you should also count:
- The 1×1 squares = 9
- The 2×2 squares = 4
- The 3×3 square = 1
But in some interpretations, the puzzle includes other square formations made by overlapping areas or combinations of various line segments that visually create square outlines.
Here’s the complete breakdown:
- 1×1 squares: 9
- 2×2 squares: 4
- 3×3 square: 1
- Hidden inner overlapping squares formed diagonally or through intersections: At least 2 more
So depending on how exact and technical you want to be, some advanced answers go up to 16 squares or more.
However, the most widely accepted correct answer is 14 squares.
Did You Get It Right?
Now’s the moment of truth. Did your original guess match the actual number of squares? If so, congratulations—you’re in a rare group that really took the time to observe and count carefully.
Video : Only 1% of people pass this logic test
If not, that’s okay too. These puzzles are designed to teach us how to think differently and challenge our assumptions.
Share and Compare
How many squares did you find before checking the answer? Drop your number in the comments. Then share this with a friend or family member and see if they can beat your count!
You might be surprised how many different answers people come up with—this puzzle always sparks a fun debate.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Looking Closely
The beauty of this puzzle lies in its simplicity. It reminds us that sometimes, the obvious answer isn’t the full answer. In a world where we’re constantly rushing, puzzles like this challenge us to pause, look closer, and think deeper.
So next time you see a simple image or question, don’t take it at face value. There might just be more squares than you think.
Stay curious, and keep solving!
