Step 1: Know the game board
The puzzle board of Sudoku comprises of a 9×9 grid along with nine 3×3 smaller grids consisting of 81 boxes altogether. Out of these 81 boxes, only 28 are already filled with numbers at the start of the game.
Step 2: Learn the objective of the game
The objective of Sudoku is to fill every empty box on the board with a number from 1 to 9. The crucial part of solving the puzzle is to ensure that none of the numbers is repeated across the same row, column, or the smaller 3×3 grid that it is a part of.
Step 3: Learn the basic rules
There are a few basic rules that you need to keep in mind while playing Sudoku. Firstly, the numbers should be filled in each row, column, and the 3×3 grid in a way that no number is repeated within the same row, column, or grid. Secondly, numbers can’t be repeated within each of the nine smaller 3×3 grids. Always remember these basic rules while solving Sudoku to avoid getting stuck in the middle of the game.
Step 4: Understand how to make use of the clues
Sudoku puzzles provide clues in the form of numbers that have already been entered on the board. These numbers are referred to as “givens.” They are the ones that you need to work around to fill in the remaining empty boxes. Therefore, by considering those givens, you can logically determine the possible numbers with each blank square and mark them down accordingly.
Step 5: Start solving the puzzle
Begin by searching for a row, column, or 3×3 grid that has the most given numbers already marked. This would indicate the potential for solving the puzzle more efficiently. Start filling in possible options, using the givens within the rows and columns that are already complete. This will help you determine which numbers are still missing and which numbers can be eliminated. Keep on repeating this process until all the empty boxes are filled.
Step 6: Keep practicing to improve
The key to becoming an adept Sudoku player is to practice as much as you can, ensuring that you’re implementing better strategies with each new puzzle that you solve. It’s essential to keep a logical and systematic method of handling the numbers while tackling Sudoku puzzles.
In conclusion, Sudoku is an engaging and challenging puzzle game that can keep your mind active and boost your cognitive skills over time. It takes time and patience to solve Sudoku puzzles, but it can be a rewarding experience for those who enjoy challenges. Follow the steps and rules above, and you’ll be able to solve Sudoku puzzles in no time. Happy puzzling!