How to Play Classic Sudoku

THE PLAYBOOK · NMGDASHUJU

How to play Classic Sudoku

Start Classic Sudoku by looking at the playing area and its controls. Fill all cells with 1–9; do not repeat a symbol in any row, column or region. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

A focus for your next round

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.

What you are aiming for

Fill all cells with 1–9; do not repeat a symbol in any row, column or region. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.

The playing sequence

1. Select an empty cell. The original clues cannot be edited.
2. Choose a symbol from the number pad, or type it on a keyboard.
3. Turn Notes on to record candidate symbols without committing an answer.
4. Use Check entries to check your filled values. Hint reveals one value from the verified solution.
5. Complete the board, or choose New puzzle for another board.

Making selections and moves

Tap or click a cell and use the number pad. Keyboard: arrows select cells; digits (and A–G on 16×16) enter values; Backspace erases. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

Try this example

On one puzzle in this collection, row 1, column 1 has 3 in its solution. Read the clues on your current board before using that value; another puzzle can need a different entry. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.

Keep this in mind

Notes are reminders, not final entries. A full board only counts as complete when it satisfies every rule. Compare the situation with the worked example. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.

If you are unsure