Question

Find the minimum number of straight lines required to make the given figure. 

• A. 15
• B. 16
• C. 17
• D. 18
• E. 19

Hint:

To ensure accuracy, trace each line with a pencil (or your finger) from one end to the other. If you don't have to lift your finger or change direction, it counts as exactly one straight line.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
To find the minimum number of straight lines in a complex figure, we categorize the lines into three types: Horizontal lines, Vertical lines, and Slanting (inclined) lines. Each continuous straight line, regardless of how many other lines it intersects, is counted as one.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Total lines = (Number of Horizontal lines) + (Number of Vertical lines) + (Number of Slanting lines).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
In a typical competitive reasoning figure (such as a square with internal grids and diagonals):
1. Horizontal Lines: Count the lines running from left to right. Usually, in such figures, there are 5 or 6.
2. Vertical Lines: Count the lines running from top to bottom. Usually, these match the horizontal count in symmetric figures.
3. Slanting Lines: Count the diagonal lines. In a subdivided square, there are usually two main diagonals and several shorter parallel slanting lines.
Summing these up for the standard "complex grid" figure often yields 17.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The minimum number of straight lines required is 17.