Sudoku is a classic logic puzzle game where you have to fill in the numbers from 1 to 9 on a 9x9 grid. The goal sounds simple: each row, each column, and each 3x3 square must contain all the numbers from 1 to 9 without repetition.

How to Play Sudoku

You start with a grid already filled with some numbers. From there, you must use the existing numbers to deduce the empty cells. Each row, column, and 3x3 cell can only have one of each number from 1 to 9. When filling in an empty cell, you must ensure that it does not duplicate any number already in the same row, column, or 3x3 cell. It sounds simple, but when the grid has many empty cells, finding the exact position for each number can be quite challenging.

Tips for Solving Sudoku Effectively

Scan Number by Number

Instead of looking at the entire board at once, choose a number (e.g., 1) and then look at the entire board to see where it could be placed. Doing this with each number in turn will help you discover positions where it can only be placed.

Prioritize Cells with Only One Possible Option

If a cell has only one valid number remaining, please place it promptly. Such small steps often create a chain reaction, opening up more possibilities.

Find Special Number Pairs

Sometimes in a row or a 3x3 grid, there will be situations where two cells can only contain the same pair of numbers, for example, 1–5. In that case, you know these two numbers must be in those two cells and cannot appear in any other position in the same area. Such pairs help eliminate many possibilities and are often the key to breaking a deadlock.

Follow the Linking Chains

Sometimes a number in one position will affect another position far away on the board. Tracking the connections between rows, columns, and boxes will help you unlock puzzles. Advanced players sometimes use hypothetical colouring to test two possibilities and see which one leads to a contradiction.

Sudoku is a game simple in rules but deep in thought. It doesn't need fancy graphics or special effects—just a board of numbers and your reasoning ability. Completing a Sudoku puzzle, especially a high-difficulty one, is very satisfying. This satisfaction comes not from chance, but from gradually solving a logic puzzle through your own reasoning. Another interesting puzzle game is Solitaire Klondike, which you might also want to try.

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