How to Play Sudoku: Rules and Strategies

Learn how to play Sudoku with clear rules, scan techniques, candidate notes, naked singles and naked pairs for beginners and returning players.

How to Play Sudoku

Fill each row, column, and 3x3 box with digits 1 to 9 without repeats. Use elimination first, then notes where needed.

  1. Scan each row, column, and box for missing digits.
  2. Place only confirmed singles and avoid guessing.
  3. Add notes for cells with multiple candidates.
  4. Repeat elimination until the board is complete.

How to Play Killer Sudoku

Follow standard Sudoku rules while matching each cage total with non-repeating digits inside that cage.

  1. List possible combinations for each cage sum.
  2. Apply cage limits to rows and columns.
  3. Confirm forced placements and update notes.
  4. Recalculate cage options after each move.

How to Play Jigsaw Sudoku

Rows and columns still use digits 1 to 9 once each, but irregular regions replace regular 3x3 boxes.

  1. Map region boundaries before starting.
  2. Find missing digits in constrained rows and columns.
  3. Use region-line intersections to force placements.
  4. Update notes immediately after each solved cell.