Basic Rules of Sudoku
The standard Sudoku grid consists of:
✅ 9 rows
✅ 9 columns
✅ 9 smaller 3×3 subgrids ("boxes" or "regions")
Each Sudoku puzzle starts with some numbers pre-filled, acting as clues. The
goal is to fill in the remaining empty cells while following these three
fundamental rules:
1. Each Row Must Contain Numbers 1-9 (No Repeats) – Each horizontal
row in the grid must contain all digits from 1 to 9, without any
repetition.
2. Each Column Must Contain Numbers 1-9 (No Repeats) – Each vertical
column must also have all digits from 1 to 9, ensuring no duplicate
numbers.
3. Each 3×3 Box Must Contain Numbers 1-9 (No Repeats) – The grid is
divided into nine 3×3 subgrids, and each of these must contain the
numbers 1 to 9, without any repetition.
Sudoku Variations
Several variations exist, adding unique challenges:
🔹 Mini Sudoku – Uses a smaller grid (e.g., 4×4 or 6×6) with simplified
rules.
🔹 Diagonal Sudoku – Includes an additional rule: numbers cannot
repeat in the two main diagonals.
🔹 Killer Sudoku – Combines Sudoku with arithmetic constraints in
"cages."
🔹 Samurai Sudoku – A larger puzzle that overlaps multiple Sudoku
grids.
Sudoku Solving Strategies for Beginners
✔ Scan for Missing Numbers – Identify missing numbers in each
row, column, and box.
✔ Use the Process of Elimination – If a number can only fit in one
spot, place it there.
✔ Look for "Naked Singles" – If only one number fits in a cell, it
must be correct.
✔ Check for "Hidden Pairs" and "Triples" – Finding number
pairs/triplets can help solve other areas.
With practice, these techniques will help you tackle more challenging Sudoku
puzzles with ease!
