Visual Illusions

Start with the ideas

The mind map What are illusions? introduces a visual illusion as a conflict between reality and what we perceive. It also describes fiction illusions, in which a figure is perceived even though it is not present in the stimulus. Start here if you want a short overview of the terms used in the collection.

Next, try the Visual Illusion flashcards. They ask when visual illusions occur and cover illusory contours and after-effects, including color and motion after-effects. Use the questions to recall the ideas from the map, then return to the map when you want to check a connection.

Explore explanations and visual perception

The Gestalt Theory of Illusions mind map explores fictions through the Kanizsa triangle. It describes a triangle perceived in the middle of a figure even though its edges are not physically present. Compare that example with the description of fiction illusions in What are illusions?

For a wider look at seeing, How do we see our world? includes the optic nerve and brain, depth, Gestalt laws and illusions. The flashcards Psychology - The Visual Perception System ask about sensation, perception and parts of the eye. Notes on illusions in space and time also discuss light entering the eye and vision as an active process.

Use the quiz alongside the maps

The GCSE Psychology quiz asks about the retina, optic nerve, optic chiasma and blind spot. Try it after looking at the visual perception resources, then use the maps and flashcards to review related ideas. The quiz focuses on aspects of the visual system, while the illusion maps give you a way to explore perception and illusion concepts.

Visual Illusions is a section of the Sensation, Perception and Attention unit in Psychology. Use this page to move between an overview, examples and questions within that section. Choose a map or flashcard deck and work through it at your own pace.