How to play Sudoku with winning strategies?
GameDev Team• 10+ years experience
Last reviewed March 1, 2026
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Quick Answer
Fill the 9x9 grid so each row, column, and 3x3 box contains 1-9 exactly once. Start with rows/columns/boxes with most numbers given.
Detailed Answer
Sudoku winning strategies start with scanning: look for rows, columns, or boxes with the most filled cells. Use 'cross-hatching' - when a number can only go in one spot in a row/column/box, fill it in. 'Naked pairs' technique: if two cells in a unit can only be the same two numbers, eliminate those numbers from other cells in that unit. 'Hidden singles': find numbers that can only go in one spot despite multiple possibilities. Work systematically through easier spots before tackling harder ones.