Easy Sudoku Techniques
These three techniques are the foundation of sudoku solving — between them they crack almost every easy puzzle without pencil-marking every cell. Work through them in order; each one builds on the scanning habit from the last.
- Beginner Tips & Simple PatternsThe rule, scanning rows/columns/boxes, cross-hatching, and the "last free cell" pattern.
- Naked SinglesA cell with only one possible shape, because its row, column and box hold the other eight.
- Hidden SinglesA shape that fits only one cell in a unit — often faster to spot than naked singles.
Looking for the bigger picture, including medium and hard methods? See the full sudoku strategies hub.