Can you solve this test?

A circle, a few lines – and the question: “How many triangles?” Most people immediately say: eight. But a closer look reveals that there’s more to it than that. A clever puzzle that tests your powers of observation and imagination. How many triangles can you really find?

1.
Can you solve this test?

It looks like a symmetrically cut cake. A circle, four straight lines intersecting in the middle, and a simple, hand-scribbled question: “How many triangles?” Easy, right? And yet… This little visual puzzle, which is rapidly circulating on social media, challenges even the most observant minds. Are you ready for the challenge?

The perfect trap for our logical brain

Looking at this image, the answer is generally immediately obvious: 8 triangles, simple enough. We usually clearly see 8 triangle segments, like the slices of a cake. And that’s it!

But not so fast… This challenge plays on that first reflex. For behind its innocuous appearance lies a play of perspectives and visual combinations. A puzzle that requires some patience… and keen observation skills.

On closer inspection…
Let’s look at it from a different angle. The circle is divided by four straight lines that meet in the middle, forming eight triangular sections. That’s our starting point.

But look closely: These small triangles can combine to form larger shapes. This is where counting becomes much more complex (and challenging!).

Here are the different combinations to look out for:

8 basic triangles: the small, obvious ones, the ones we see first.

4 medium-sized triangles: by connecting two small triangles next to each other (like two slices of pie side by side).

2 large triangles: by connecting four triangles that form a complete semicircle.

1 hidden triangle: formed by the symmetry of a stylized semicircle, which can be visualized by grouping them.

1 “giant” triangle: a creative combination that incorporates the entire circle as a stylized triangular figure.

The total that surprises almost everyone
So, if we do the calculation together:

8 (small) + 4 (medium) + 2 (large) + 1 (hidden) + 1 (giant) = a total of 16 triangles.

To see the rest, tap the photo.

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