1. Start with the corners and edges
The easiest way to solve Sudoku is to begin with the corners and edges of the grid. Look for squares with only one possible value and start filling them with that value. Once you have completed all the corners and edges, you can move towards the center of the grid and try to solve the rest.
2. Create a mental picture of the grid
Creating a mental picture of the grid is probably the most crucial step in solving Sudoku. Try to keep in mind how many digits have been filled in each row, column, and section. This will help you identify which digit is missing in a particular row, column, or section.
3. Use cross-hatching
Cross-hatching is a technique that involves identifying digits that cannot be used in a particular row, column, or section. For instance, suppose a particular row has filled digits as 2, 4, 6, 7, and 9. In that case, the remaining digits that can be used are 1, 3, 5, and 8. Identify such digits that cannot be used and eliminate them from the possible values in that particular row, column, or section.
4. Look for patterns
Some Sudokus have a pattern in the way they are designed. You can look for these patterns and use them to solve the puzzle. For instance, if two rows or columns have only two identical possible values, it enables you to eliminate those values from other rows and columns.
5. Use the process of elimination
Often, it becomes impossible to identify which digit should be used in a particular square. In such a case, use the process of elimination. Look for squares that can have only one possible value based on the other digits filled in the same row, column, or section. Use this process to eliminate possible values for other squares.
6. Take breaks
Sudoku can be exhausting, especially the difficult ones. Therefore, take breaks if you feel exhausted or frustrated. When you come back to the game, you can look at it with fresh eyes and might be able to solve it quickly.
7. Practice
Sudoku requires patience and practice. The more you practice, the better you get at it. Try solving different levels of Sudoku puzzles – easy, medium, and hard, and you will gradually become an expert.
In conclusion, Sudoku is a complex puzzle game that requires logical thinking and patience. It can be challenging to solve difficult Sudokus, but with the tips mentioned above, you are sure to crack them. Remember not to give up, and practice is the key to mastering Sudoku. Happy Sudoku solving!