How many squares can you count in the given figure image_25de04.png?

To find the total number of squares in the given figure image_25de04.png, we can break down the structure into two main components:
1. Central Grid Structure:
The central part of the figure forms a symmetric $3\times 3$ square grid layout.
The number of squares in an $n\times n$ grid is calculated using the formula:

$$\text{Number of squares}=\sum _{i=1}^n{i}^2$$

For a $3\times 3$ grid where $n=3$:

$$\text{Central squares}=3^2+2^2+1^2=9+4+1=14$$

2. Outer Corner Squares:
There is $1$ additional independent square attached to each of the $4$ outer corners/arms of the main central structure.

$$\text{Outer squares}=4\times 1=4$$

Total Number of Squares:

$$\text{Total squares}=14+4=18$$

Hence, the correct option is D.