Sudoku Guide

Sudoku Strategies and Tips

Good Sudoku solving is about reducing possibilities logically rather than guessing.

Naked singles

A naked single is an empty cell where only one number is possible after checking its row, column, and box.

Hidden singles

A hidden single occurs when a particular number can go in only one cell within a row, column, or 3×3 box, even if that cell has other candidates.

Use pencil marks

For harder puzzles, record possible numbers in empty cells. Whenever a number is confirmed, remove it from related candidates.

Don't guess

When stuck, revisit the grid and look for relationships between candidates. A logical next step is usually created by something you placed earlier.

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