How to Play Classic Sudoku

THE PLAYBOOK · SYCX2Z

How to play Classic Sudoku

Try Classic Sudoku at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Look at what changes after your first action.

A careful first round

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.

Your goal

Fill all cells with 1–9; do not repeat a symbol in any row, column or region. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. The example below illustrates a decision.

Step by step

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.

Controls

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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Check any mode label before starting.

A useful example

On one puzzle in this collection, row 1, column 1 has 6 in its solution. Read the clues on your current board before using that value; another puzzle can need a different entry. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Look for the relevant detail.

Watch out for this

Notes are reminders, not final entries. A full board only counts as complete when it satisfies every rule. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.

Common questions