How Solving Sudoku Can Be Done in Six Easy Steps

The object of the game is to complete the grid with the numbers one through nine, using each number only once in its designated square. The puzzles come in varying levels of difficultly starting with easy and ending in torturous. In order to solve the puzzle properly, the player must use logic, deductive reasoning, and intense analysis.

The major rule in solving Sudoku is this: the player must fill in each cell of the 9 x 9 grid with the numbers from one through nine using each of the numbers only once in every row, every column, and in every cell of each 3 x 3 grid. The quickest way to solve the game is to look for the possible numbers that can go in each row or column. The player needs to examine what numbers could possibly work in each location (it's a methodical process). Once a number is placed in its box, no other box in that row, column, or block can use that number. While a player is learning the ropes, a record can be kept of what's a possible number(s) for that box by writing in very small print in the box. Eventually the solution will start to become evident.

A player should follow these steps to solve a Sudoku puzzle grid: (1) Write all the possible numbers that can be used in each row, column, or block in small print in the corner of the grid squares which are causing the most difficulty. (2) Add all the possible numbers to the grid one-by-one. (3) Be aware at all times that a number is to be used only once in the same row, column, or 9 x 9 blocks. (4) There is always the chance that circumstances will dictate that there is more than a single choice for one block. Don't panic. Go on back to steps two and four again (always use a pencil and eraser in the beginning). (5) Keeping in mind step three, remove all the numbers that cannot possibly go in the cell. This may be a bit confusing so be aware of each number being used. For example, if two cells already have two or six and both should be in the cell, other empty cells in the row or column should not contain either of these two numbers. (6) Finally, always check the results. When all of the numbers of each row, column, or block are totaled (added), the sum (total) must be forty-five. This is a great check.

Although the six steps may seem to be difficult to follow, read each step and try to analyze what it is trying to convey. It really is not as difficult as it may seem. When solving Sudoku, patience and persistence are required, along with careful thinking. Remember that most important tip: have fun with it!