5 Beginner Sudoku Strategies to Master First

If you're new to Sudoku, the 9×9 grid can seem intimidating at first. But don't worry! With the right strategies, you'll be solving puzzles with confidence in no time. These five fundamental techniques form the foundation of Sudoku solving and will help you tackle easy to medium difficulty puzzles.

1. The Scanning Technique

What it is: Systematically check each row, column, and 3×3 box to find where numbers can go.

How to use it:

• Pick a number (start with 1)
• Look at each row and column where that number already appears
• Find cells where that number must go based on elimination
• Repeat for all numbers 1-9

Example: If 7 appears in the top-left and top-middle boxes, the 7 in the top-right box can only go in specific cells. Use this elimination to narrow down possibilities.

2. The Single Candidate (Naked Single)

What it is: Finding cells where only one number can possibly fit.

How to identify it:

1. Look at an empty cell
2. Check its row, column, and 3×3 box
3. Eliminate all numbers that already appear
4. If only one number remains, that's your answer!

This is often the easiest technique and should be your go-to move. When you fill in a naked single, it creates new opportunities for more singles.

3. The Hidden Single

What it is: A number that can only go in one cell within a row, column, or box—even though that cell might have other possibilities.

How to spot it:

• Focus on one row, column, or box
• Pick a number that's missing
• Check every empty cell to see where that number could go
• If it can only go in one cell, place it there!

The difference from Naked Singles: A naked single is obvious when looking at one cell. A hidden single is only obvious when looking at the whole region.

4. Cross-Hatching

What it is: Using rows and columns to eliminate possibilities within boxes.

The technique:

1. Pick a 3×3 box that has several numbers filled
2. For missing numbers, trace imaginary lines from existing instances
3. These lines "cross out" cells in the box where that number can't go
4. Find where the number must be placed

This visual technique is perfect for beginners because you can literally point at the screen or paper and trace the lines with your finger.

5. Process of Elimination with Pencil Marks

What it is: Writing small "notes" in cells to track which numbers are possible.

How to use it effectively:

• For tricky cells, write tiny numbers for all possibilities (1-9)
• As you fill in the puzzle, erase notes that are no longer possible
• Look for cells where your notes show only one remaining option
• This helps you spot patterns you might otherwise miss

Pro tip: In our Premium Sudoku app, pencil marks are automatic and update in real-time as you solve. This makes the technique much easier to use!

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Putting It All Together

The key to mastering these strategies is practice and patience. Here's a solving workflow that works for most beginners:

1. Start with scanning - Fill in obvious numbers quickly
2. Look for naked singles - These are your quick wins
3. Use cross-hatching on boxes with many numbers
4. Find hidden singles when you get stuck
5. Add pencil marks only when other methods don't work

As you practice, these techniques will become second nature. You'll start seeing patterns instantly and solving puzzles much faster.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Guessing - Sudoku is a logic puzzle. Every move should be based on deduction, not luck.

❌ Working too fast - Speed comes with practice. Focus on accuracy first.

❌ Ignoring boxes - Remember, each 3×3 box has the same rules as rows and columns!

❌ Giving up too early - Sometimes you need to step away and come back with fresh eyes.

Ready to Practice?

The best way to master these strategies is through regular practice. Start with easy puzzles and gradually work your way up. Each puzzle you solve strengthens your pattern recognition and makes the next one easier.

Remember: every Sudoku expert started exactly where you are now. With these five fundamental strategies, you have everything you need to begin your journey. Happy solving!