Pattern Recognition in Sudoku
Recognizing patterns is essential for efficient Sudoku solving. Here are the most common patterns you'll encounter.
Naked Singles
The most basic pattern - when a cell can only contain one possible number based on the numbers already present in its row, column, and box.
Hidden Singles
A number that can only go in one cell within a row, column, or box, even though the cell might have other candidates.
Naked Pairs
Two cells in the same unit that contain the same two candidates. These candidates can be eliminated from other cells in that unit.
Hidden Pairs
Two numbers that can only appear in the same two cells within a unit. All other candidates can be removed from these cells.
Pointing Pairs/Triples
When all instances of a candidate in a box are aligned in the same row or column, that candidate can be eliminated from the rest of that row or column.
Box/Line Reduction
When all instances of a candidate in a row or column are contained within one box, that candidate can be eliminated from other cells in that box.
Practice Tips
- Start by scanning for naked singles
- Look for hidden singles in each unit
- Use pencil marks to track candidates
- Practice pattern recognition daily