Beginner strategy
Find the Easy Numbers First
You do not need to solve the hardest square first. Start with the rows, columns and boxes that already contain the most information. One easy move often reveals another.
Why this strategy works
Every number you place reduces the possible numbers in nearby squares. This means a simple placement can create several new opportunities elsewhere on the board.
By solving the obvious numbers first, you gradually make the whole puzzle easier.
Step-by-step method
- Look for a row, column or box that already contains many numbers.
- Identify the missing numbers.
- Check each empty square against its row, column and box.
- Eliminate numbers that cannot legally fit.
- Place the number when only one possible square remains.
- Scan the puzzle again after each placement.
Example
Imagine a row already contains:
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 9
The only missing number is 8. The empty square must therefore contain 8.
The same principle applies when a 3×3 box or column has only one missing number.
What should you scan first?
- Rows with only one or two empty squares.
- Columns with many numbers already completed.
- 3×3 boxes that are nearly full.
- Numbers that appear frequently across the puzzle.
Common mistake
Beginners often stare at the emptiest or most difficult area of the grid. This creates frustration because there is not enough information available yet.
Move to an easier section instead. The difficult area may become solvable after you place more numbers elsewhere.