Create your own: Draw nested or overlapping shapes to see if your perception changes.
Experimenting this way can turn a simple visual test into a mini-lab for understanding cognition, perception, and problem-solving in yourself and others.
The Circle-Counting Challenge may appear trivial, but it’s far more than a simple counting task. It’s a window into your mind, revealing whether you rely on meticulous observation, intuitive pattern recognition, or a mix of strategies. Your approach can provide insights into attention to detail, cognitive style, and problem-solving tendencies.
Next time you encounter overlapping circles or complex patterns—whether on a puzzle, in work, or in life—consider how you process information. Are you scanning each element with care, estimating based on patterns, or jumping in without a clear method? Understanding your tendencies can help you refine focus, improve decision-making, and even approach challenges with greater awareness.
So, grab a pen, find a circle-filled image, and see what it says about you. The results might surprise you—and more importantly, they might teach you something valuable about the way your mind works.