Sign in

Optical illusion: Only 1 in 20 people can find hidden number 38 in this grid in 5 seconds

Optical illusion: Only 1 in 20 people can spot the hidden number 38 in this viral challenge.

Published on: Aug 31, 2025, 00:19:52 IST
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
Copy link
  • copy link

Optical illusions are the latest trend on social media. The latest puzzle to go viral is an easy 'find the number' game, where players have been asked to identify the hidden number 38 in this viral image on the internet. But the real task here is that you only get five seconds to find the hidden number. This means that only those who have magnificent observational skills and sharp vision will be able to crack this one.

Optical illusion: Find the number 38 in five seconds.
Optical illusion: Find the number 38 in five seconds.

Counted among the top trends on the internet, optical illusions are usually cleverly crafted images that go on to play tricks with our brains by using various patterns, shapes, and colors. Such fun challenges are a healthy exercise for the brain and eyes, providing a fun way to put our visual intelligence to the test.

Also read: Optical Illusion: Can you spot number 9 in this grid in 20 seconds?

Optical illusion: What's the challenge?

At first glance, all players get to witness in today's game are multiple columns of the number '39'. But hidden somewhere among the sea of '39' is the number '38'.

Players have been given five seconds to spot the odd number in this picture.

Optical illusion: Find the number 38 in five seconds.
Optical illusion: Find the number 38 in five seconds.

Need a hint? Such puzzles are designed to challenge our observational skills and ability to find a solution in the least amount of time.

A trick to solve them really fast is to carefully scan each row from the start, without getting distracted by the repetitive pattern. All players need to keep in mind is to find the hidden number by examining the patterns of all numbers.

Also read: Chad Powers trailer: Glen Powell goes undercover in sports comedy inspired by Eli Manning’s prank | Watch

Optical illusion: Answer

Can you spot the hidden number in 5 seconds? If that's the case, then you can count yourself among a handful of people who were able to solve this puzzle in the given time. Those who remain clueless must not worry at all, since they are not alone.

The number 38 is carefully hidden in the fourth column from the left and the sixth row.

FAQs

What's the answer to the optical illusion?

In the viral challenge, the hidden number is 38 and is placed in the fourth column and the sixth row from the left.

Why is solving such puzzles difficult?

A major reason behind that is that the brain usually processes repetitive patterns as a whole. This makes it extremely difficult for us to spot small variations. To solve optical illusions, we need to slow down and focus.

3. Why should you solve optical illusions?

Playing such games regularly helps in training the brain to spot subtle differences. Also, these challenges enhance observation skills and sharpen focus.

4. What's the ideal time to solve such puzzles?

Usually, players take around 10 seconds to find the answer.

  • HT US Desk
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    HT US Desk

    The Hindustan Times US Desk brings you the latest news and developments from across the United States. The team covers everything from breaking news and politics to sports, business, entertainment and stories that are trending across the country. Our coverage includes the White House, Congress, US elections, immigration and visa updates, H-1B, green cards, Social Security, education, jobs, layoffs, the economy, technology and major policy changes. We also closely follow stories that matter to Indian and South Asian communities in the US. The desk covers major US sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, along with player news, injuries, schedules, results and major events. Entertainment coverage includes Hollywood, celebrities, television, streaming, music and pop culture. We also report on breaking developments, major incidents, weather, public safety, court cases and other stories making headlines across the country. When a major policy or news development affects people's everyday lives, the team works to explain what happened, what it means and what readers need to know. Alongside breaking news, the US Desk produces explainers and practical stories on topics such as immigration, Social Security, taxes, education, employment and government programmes. The team also works on science, tech, business and AI stories analyzing the impact they may have on people. The team follows developments throughout the day, keeping an eye on official announcements, public records, reliable news sources and what people are talking about across the US.Read More