topological structure changes.
This doesn’t necessarily mean the puzzle has a single mathematical answer, because the exact geometry of the pictured garment matters.
But topology helps explain why “counting holes” is more complicated than simply counting visible circles.
A Hole Is Not Always a Circle
Another reason people struggle with the puzzle is that they unconsciously expect a hole to look circular.
But holes can have almost any shape.
A rip can be:
Long
Narrow
Jagged
Rectangular
Irregular
Connected to another opening
A large tear can still function as an
