Optical illusion: 98% geniuses failed to spot the odd word in 5 seconds

Bhupinder Singh | Jul 01, 2025, 13:40 IST
( Image credit : Indiatimes )
This tricky optical illusion IQ test challenges you to find the odd word hidden among similar-looking ones in just 5 seconds. Only 2% of people with sharp observation skills can spot the difference in time!
Optical illusions challenge: Think you’ve got sharp eyes and a quick brain? Try this optical illusion IQ test that’s leaving even the brightest minds puzzled. This brain teaser challenges you to find the odd word hidden in a grid — but you’ve only got 5 seconds. Are you ready for it?

Today’s optical illusion challenge: Find the odd word


In today’s IQ test optical illusion, you're looking at a word puzzle where all the words appear to be the same. But don’t be fooled! One of them is definitely different. Can you find the odd word in just 5 seconds?

Here's what to look out for:

In the grid, you’ll see the word ‘CAT’ repeated over and over again. But hidden somewhere in that grid is one word that isn’t ‘CAT’. Maybe it's ‘CUT’, ‘CAP’, or ‘CAN’ — you won’t know until you look closely.

Time starts now – can you spot it in 5 seconds?


Only 2% can do it within 5 seconds!

If you managed to find the odd word in under 5 seconds, congratulations! You’re part of the top 2% with eagle eyes and quick thinking. It’s not just about vision — it’s also a test of focus and mental agility.

Most people need a second or even third glance before they can spot what’s wrong. If you didn’t get it right away, don’t worry — just keep practising with more optical illusions.

Noticed it yet? Here's the answer

Still looking? Don’t feel bad — this IQ test is meant to be tricky.

Answer: The odd word in the image is ‘CAP’ instead of ‘CAT’.


Optical illusion IQ test
Optical illusion IQ test challenge
( Image credit : Optical illusion IQ test challenge | Credit: Indiatimes )

Spotted it now? Great! Your observation skills are improving. If not, try more of these optical illusion IQ tests to train your brain to notice small differences faster.

What are optical illusions?


An optical illusion is a clever visual puzzle that tricks the brain into seeing something that’s not quite there. Also called visual illusions, they challenge how we perceive shapes, colours, and patterns, making them a popular way to test intelligence and focus.

There are three main types of optical illusions:

  • Literal illusions: These occur when the brain sees something that’s not really present.
  • Physiological illusions: Caused by bright lights, patterns, or colours that affect how our eyes and brain work together.
  • Cognitive illusions: These happen when the brain makes incorrect assumptions about what it's seeing.

Why optical illusions are good for your brain


Believe it or not, regularly solving optical illusions can boost your brainpower. They help:

  • Improve attention to detail
  • Enhance memory and focus
  • Train the brain to think critically
  • Potentially slow down age-related cognitive decline

So when you take on these challenges, you’re not just having fun — you're also giving your brain a healthy workout.

Optical illusions are not just fun but also a smart way to keep your brain sharp. These puzzles test your IQ, boost your attention, and improve how quickly your mind processes visual data. Whether you found the odd word in time or not, the more you challenge your brain, the better you get.

So, want to take more IQ tests and find the odd words hidden in tricky puzzles? Keep visiting for more exciting optical illusions!

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