How to Beat Level 9 in I'm Not a Robot - Nested Squares Guide
TL;DR
- Objective: Conquer Level 9 of Neal.Fun's 'I'm Not a Robot' by progressively selecting nested squares containing stop signs.
- Steps: Select initial stop sign squares, watch for subdivision, continue selecting at each new level until no further nesting occurs.
- Target: Approximately 31 tiny squares selected across multiple subdivision levels.
- Risk: Missing selections at any level or selecting incorrect squares will prevent successful completion.
This guide breaks down Level 9's complex nested selection process into manageable steps for systematic completion.
Level 9 Challenge Overview
Level 9 introduces a multi-layered selection system requiring navigation through progressive subdivisions while maintaining stop sign identification accuracy. Each selection triggers subdivisions that reveal increasingly granular detail.

Level 9 Nested Squares Overview
Progressive Selection Strategy
Master the nested selection process through these systematic stages:
Stage 1: Initial Grid Analysis
- Scan Systematically: Identify all visible octagonal red stop signs in the initial grid
- Include Partial Signs: Select squares with stop signs at boundaries
- Complete Coverage: Missing initial selections affects all subsequent levels
- Click All: Select every square containing a clearly visible stop sign
Stage 2: First Subdivision Response
- Observe Changes: Selected squares subdivide into four smaller squares each
- New Detail: Examine subdivisions for previously hidden stop signs
- Maintain Accuracy: Select all stop signs visible at this new resolution level
- Progressive Refinement: Each subdivision reveals additional detail
Stage 3: Continue Subdivision Cycles
- Repeat Process: Continue selection through multiple subdivision levels (typically 3-4 cycles)
- Increasing Detail: Each level provides higher resolution and clarity
- Systematic Scanning: Maintain consistent patterns to avoid missing selections
- Boundary Attention: Stop signs at edges may become clearer at higher subdivisions

Level 9 Progressive Selection
Stage 4: Completion Verification
- Final Count: Verify approximately 31 total selections across all levels
- No More Subdivisions: Process concludes when squares no longer subdivide
- Review Accuracy: Significant count deviations indicate missed selections
Advanced Subdivision Techniques
- Boundary Analysis: Edge stop signs may span multiple subdivisions
- Pattern Recognition: Maintain octagonal shape and red color focus across scales
- Systematic Coverage: Use grid-based scanning (row-by-row) for thoroughness
Pro Tips for Multi-Level Selection
Tip 1: Develop Subdivision Awareness
Examine subdivided areas immediately after each selection cycle. Don't rush to next selections until thoroughly analyzing current results.
Tip 2: Track Progress Systematically
Monitor total selection count as you progress. The ~31 target provides useful completion benchmark.
Tip 3: Master Multi-Scale Recognition
Stop signs maintain consistent visual elements (octagonal shape, red color) across subdivision levels regardless of apparent size changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1: How do I know when subdivision is complete?
- A1: Subdivision concludes when clicking selected squares no longer creates smaller squares, indicating maximum depth reached.
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Q2: What if I accidentally select wrong squares?
- A2: Click incorrectly selected squares again to deselect them. Be aware that deselecting subdivided squares may affect subdivision state.
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Q3: Why does my count differ from the 31 target?
- A3: Significant deviations usually indicate missed stop signs at subdivision levels or incorrect selections. Review systematically for obvious signs.
Final Summary
Successfully complete Level 9 by mastering progressive subdivision navigation while maintaining consistent stop sign identification across multiple nested levels. Use systematic subdivision analysis, progressive counting strategies, and focus on visual pattern recognition at varying scales. Patience and systematic approaches ensure accuracy at each crucial subdivision level.