🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 92 (from laksa105)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa092.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck","crawl_time":1775511328,"first_indexed_time":1649230309,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,wikihow!www,\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck s443","src_root_hash":"12431216878206919092","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"11 Simple Ways to Solve Sudoku when Stuck - wikiHow","meta_descriptions":["So you've filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you're stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for sudoku, you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out..."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Download Article\nDownload Article\nSo you’ve filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you’re stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for\nsudoku\n, you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out exactly where a number is supposed to go. If you want to know the best basic and advanced techniques to use when you’re stuck, keep reading so you can learn how to finish the puzzle!\nSince numbers can only appear once in each row, column, and\n3 x 3 box\nin the puzzle, the candidates you can put in the empty squares are limited. Go through each cell and scan the row, column, and box that it’s in to figure out what numbers could still fit there. Write all of the potential candidates in the cell lightly with a pencil.\n[1]\nIf seeing all of the possible numbers in the cells looks overwhelming, only notate the squares that have 2 or 3 potential numbers instead.\nAdvertisement\nAfter you fill in your notation, you might find some obvious cells to fill in that you missed earlier. Scan through each of the cells on the puzzle and see if there are any with just one possible solution. Since you know that no other numbers can fit there, that number is the only solution for that cell.\n[2]\nOnce you fill in the number, check the row, column, and box that the cell was in and erase any other instances of that number.\nBe on the lookout for “hidden singles” as well. You can fill in a number if it isn’t written down anywhere else in the same row, column, or box, even if there are other candidates in that cell.\nCheck for 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that can only contain the same 2 possible numbers, which is known as a “naked pair.” Even though you don’t know exactly which number goes into each square, you can erase your notation for the other cells in the row, column, or box since they can never contain those values.\n[3]\n“Hidden pairs” are similar but a little trickier to find. The 2 cells are the only places where the numbers can be placed, but the cells may have notation for other potential candidates.\nAdvertisement\nAll 3 cells have to be in the same row, column, or box. “Naked” triples only have the 3 potential numbers while “hidden” triples have extra digits in the cells that make them harder to spot. All 3 of the potential candidates don’t have to appear in each of the cells, which can make them a little trickier to find.\nExample:\nIf the cells contain 1 & 5, 1 & 8, and 5 & 8, the values 1, 5, and 8 have to go into those cells and can’t be written in other cells in the same row, column, or box.\nPointing pairs and triples are when there are only 2 or 3 cells with the same potential numbers in a 3 x 3 box. The cells must also be in the same row or column. Since you know that the number has to go in one of those 2 cells, you can erase any other time you notated the number in the same row or column.\n[4]\nExample:\nIf A1 and C1 are the only cells in a box with 4 as a potential candidate, you can erase all other 4s from the first column.\nExample:\nIf D4, D5, and D6 are the only spots in the middle box that can contain 8, no other cells in the D row can have 8.\nYou won’t know which cell the number goes into quite yet, but pointing pairs and triples should help narrow down your options for other cells.\nAdvertisement\nTo use a forcing chain, look for multiple cells that have 2 potential numbers. You should be able to draw lines through the rows and columns to connect all the cells in the chain. Test each number in one of the cells and check how they fill in the rest of the chain. If there’s one cell that uses the same number no matter which digit you filled in originally, then you can assume that it’s the only solution.\n[5]\nMark the square you started in so you can retrace your steps.\nTo use an X-wing, check for a row that has a potential candidate that can only fit into 2 cells. Check for another row in the puzzle that has the same candidate in 2 cells that are in the same columns as the first row candidates. The potential number can only fit once in each of the columns, so you can erase it from any other cells in those columns.\n[6]\nExample:\nIf a 2 could only be in the 1st and 7th columns in rows E and G, then you can erase 2 as a potential candidate from all other cells in those rows.\nAdvertisement\nStart by finding a cell with only 2 possible numbers to use as a “pivot.” Check the same row, column, and box for “pincers”, which are other cells with 2 potential candidates that share at least 1 number with the pivot. The second number in each of the pincers should be the same. Check the cell where the pincers would intersect on the puzzle to see if it shares a number with them. If it does, then you can eliminate it from the puzzle.\n[7]\nExample:\nA2 is the pivot with 3 & 8. The pincers are I2 with 4 & 3 and A6 with 4 & 8. The intersection between I2 and A6 is I6 with 4 & 5. Since 4 is in both of the pincer cells, you can eliminate it as an option from I6.\nThe values should only have 3 different potential numbers between them. If one cell has candidates X and Y and the other 2 cells could be X and Z or Y and Z, then no other cells in the same row, column, or box can contain the Z value.\n[8]\nForming an angle means that 2 of the cells are in the same row or column, but the third cell can be positioned anywhere that shares a row, column, or box with one of the others.\nExample:\nB1 could be 4 or 9, B5 could be 1 or 9, and D1 could be 1 or 4. The cell D5 couldn’t be 1 since it would make filling in B1 impossible. That means you can eliminate 1 as a candidate from D5.\nAdvertisement\nCheck your puzzle for 3 separate rows or columns where a potential digit can only fit into 2 or 3 cells in each. You should be able to connect the cells if you drew lines through the columns and rows. After you connect all of the cells you can erase the potential candidate from any other cells in those rows or columns.\n[9]\nExample:\nThe only cells in rows B, E, and F that can contain 1 are B1, B7, E5, E7, F1, and F5. Since you can draw a closed loop connecting these cells, you can erase 1 from any other cells in the same columns as these cells.\nEvery sudoku puzzle has a unique solution, but you might be faced with multiple possibilities if there are 2 sets of 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that have the pair of potential numbers. Check if any of the 4 cells have additional candidates in them. If so, then you can erase the original pair of digits since it would make the puzzle impossible to solve.\n[10]\nExample:\n2 & 3 are the only potential candidates in D4, D5, and I4. I5 has 1, 2, 3, & 8 as potential candidates. With a unique rectangle, you can eliminate 2 & 3 as options from I5.\nAdvertisement\nAsk a Question\n200 characters left\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\nSubmit\nAdvertisement\nVideo\nAvoid guessing any of the numbers in the puzzle since there’s always a way to work out the solution logically. Take a little extra time to scan through the puzzle again to see if you missed anything.\n[11]\nThanks\nThanks for submitting a tip for review!\nAdvertisement\nReferences\nAbout This Article\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 360,000 times.\nReader Success Stories\nAnonymous\nApr 7, 2024\n\"It is really helpful when you get stuck.\"\nDid this article help you?\nwikiHow Tech Help Pro:\nDevelop the tech skills you need for work and life\nLet's do this!\nX\nFor over two decades, we’ve been on a mission: to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. Our articles are human written and expert endorsed to ensure readers like you get reliable, current information.\nBefore you get back to learning, we would be grateful if you could take a minute to support wikiHow. Any amount helps. 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Learn why people **trust wikiHow**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience)\n\n- [Categories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Special:CategoryListing \"Special:CategoryListing\")\n- [Hobbies and Crafts](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Hobbies-and-Crafts \"Category:Hobbies and Crafts\")\n- [Games](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Games \"Category:Games\")\n- [Puzzles and Memory Games](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Puzzles-and-Memory-Games \"Category:Puzzles and Memory Games\")\n- [Mathematical Puzzles](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Mathematical-Puzzles \"Category:Mathematical Puzzles\")\n# [How to Solve Sudoku when Stuck](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nExplore this Article\n\nIN THIS ARTICLE\n\n[1 Notation](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Notation)\n\n[2 Sole candidate](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Sole-candidate)\n\n[3 Naked and hidden pairs](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Naked-and-hidden-pairs)\n\n[4 Naked and hidden triples](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Naked-and-hidden-triples)\n\n[5 Pointing pairs and triples](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Pointing-pairs-and-triples)\n\n[6 Forcing chain](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Forcing-chain)\n\n[7 X-wing](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#X-wing)\n\n[8 Y-wing](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Y-wing)\n\n[9 XY-wing](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#XY-wing)\n\n[10 Swordfish](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Swordfish)\n\n[11 Unique rectangle](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Unique-rectangle)\n\n[\\+ Show 8 more...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n[\\- Show less...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nOther Sections\n\n[Video](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Video)\n\n[Tips and Warnings](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#tips)\n\n[Related Articles](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#relatedwikihows)\n\n[References](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#References)\n\n**Co-authored by** [Juliana Pache](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Juliana-Pache)  and [Hunter Rising](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Hunter-Rising)\n\n[Last Updated: December 16, 2025](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)  [Fact Checked](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nX\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Juliana Pache](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Juliana-Pache) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Hunter Rising](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Hunter-Rising). Juliana Pache is a puzzle maker based in Brooklyn, NY. Juliana is passionate about Black diasporic legacies and creates puzzles that engage with Black popular culture. She founded Black Crossword, the premier destination for word gamers interested in Black culture and the diaspora. Black Crossword launched in 2023 and offers a free daily mini puzzle, with plans to launch standard-size puzzles under a subscription. There is also a book available for purchase that contains 100 mini-puzzles within it. Juliana has a BS in Media Studies and Production from Temple University and has previously worked in marketing and media for companies like Rolling Stone, VICE, and The FADER. Juliana and Black Crossword have been featured in the New York Times, BET, the Huffington Post, and Good Morning America.   \n  \n There are [9 references](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.   \n  \n This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.   \n  \n This article has been viewed 360,000 times.\n\nSo you’ve filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you’re stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for [sudoku](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Do-Sudoku-Fast \"Do Sudoku Fast\"), you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out exactly where a number is supposed to go. If you want to know the best basic and advanced techniques to use when you’re stuck, keep reading so you can learn how to finish the puzzle\\!\n## Steps\n1\n\n### Notation\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Writing down possible numbers for each cell lets you see your options.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/44\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg)\n   **Writing down possible numbers for each cell lets you see your options.** Since numbers can only appear once in each row, column, and [3 x 3 box](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-3x3-Sudoku-Puzzle \"Solve 3x3 Sudoku Puzzle\") in the puzzle, the candidates you can put in the empty squares are limited. Go through each cell and scan the row, column, and box that it’s in to figure out what numbers could still fit there. Write all of the potential candidates in the cell lightly with a pencil.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-1) X Research source\n   \n   - If seeing all of the possible numbers in the cells looks overwhelming, only notate the squares that have 2 or 3 potential numbers instead.\n\n2\n\n### Sole candidate\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![If only one number fits in a cell, then it has to go there.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/58\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg)\n   **If only one number fits in a cell, then it has to go there.** After you fill in your notation, you might find some obvious cells to fill in that you missed earlier. Scan through each of the cells on the puzzle and see if there are any with just one possible solution. Since you know that no other numbers can fit there, that number is the only solution for that cell.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-2) X Research source\n   \n   - Once you fill in the number, check the row, column, and box that the cell was in and erase any other instances of that number.\n   - Be on the lookout for “hidden singles” as well. You can fill in a number if it isn’t written down anywhere else in the same row, column, or box, even if there are other candidates in that cell.\n\n3\n\n### Naked and hidden pairs\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Cells with 2 numbers in the same row, column, or box limit other cells.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg)\n   **Cells with 2 numbers in the same row, column, or box limit other cells.** Check for 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that can only contain the same 2 possible numbers, which is known as a “naked pair.” Even though you don’t know exactly which number goes into each square, you can erase your notation for the other cells in the row, column, or box since they can never contain those values.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-3) X Research source\n   \n   - “Hidden pairs” are similar but a little trickier to find. The 2 cells are the only places where the numbers can be placed, but the cells may have notation for other potential candidates.\n\n4\n\n### Naked and hidden triples\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Triples have only 3 possible numbers that could fit into the 3 cells.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/72\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg)\n   **Triples have only 3 possible numbers that could fit into the 3 cells.** All 3 cells have to be in the same row, column, or box. “Naked” triples only have the 3 potential numbers while “hidden” triples have extra digits in the cells that make them harder to spot. All 3 of the potential candidates don’t have to appear in each of the cells, which can make them a little trickier to find.\n   \n   - *Example:* If the cells contain 1 & 5, 1 & 8, and 5 & 8, the values 1, 5, and 8 have to go into those cells and can’t be written in other cells in the same row, column, or box.\n\n5\n\n### Pointing pairs and triples\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Eliminate numbers from a row or column if they’re constrained to one box.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg)\n   **Eliminate numbers from a row or column if they’re constrained to one box.** Pointing pairs and triples are when there are only 2 or 3 cells with the same potential numbers in a 3 x 3 box. The cells must also be in the same row or column. Since you know that the number has to go in one of those 2 cells, you can erase any other time you notated the number in the same row or column.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-4) X Research source\n   \n   - *Example:* If A1 and C1 are the only cells in a box with 4 as a potential candidate, you can erase all other 4s from the first column.\n   - *Example:* If D4, D5, and D6 are the only spots in the middle box that can contain 8, no other cells in the D row can have 8.\n   - You won’t know which cell the number goes into quite yet, but pointing pairs and triples should help narrow down your options for other cells.\n\n6\n\n### Forcing chain\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Test a number in a cell with 2 digits to see how it affects the other cells.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a2\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg)\n   **Test a number in a cell with 2 digits to see how it affects the other cells.** To use a forcing chain, look for multiple cells that have 2 potential numbers. You should be able to draw lines through the rows and columns to connect all the cells in the chain. Test each number in one of the cells and check how they fill in the rest of the chain. If there’s one cell that uses the same number no matter which digit you filled in originally, then you can assume that it’s the only solution.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-5) X Research source\n   \n   - Mark the square you started in so you can retrace your steps.\n\n7\n\n### X-wing\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![The X-wing technique reveals numbers for cells in 2 columns and rows.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg)\n   **The X-wing technique reveals numbers for cells in 2 columns and rows.** To use an X-wing, check for a row that has a potential candidate that can only fit into 2 cells. Check for another row in the puzzle that has the same candidate in 2 cells that are in the same columns as the first row candidates. The potential number can only fit once in each of the columns, so you can erase it from any other cells in those columns.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-6) X Research source\n   \n   - *Example:* If a 2 could only be in the 1st and 7th columns in rows E and G, then you can erase 2 as a potential candidate from all other cells in those rows.\n\n8\n\n### Y-wing\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![You can eliminate numbers from intersections between rows and columns.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg)\n   **You can eliminate numbers from intersections between rows and columns.** Start by finding a cell with only 2 possible numbers to use as a “pivot.” Check the same row, column, and box for “pincers”, which are other cells with 2 potential candidates that share at least 1 number with the pivot. The second number in each of the pincers should be the same. Check the cell where the pincers would intersect on the puzzle to see if it shares a number with them. If it does, then you can eliminate it from the puzzle.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-7) X Research source\n   \n   - *Example:* A2 is the pivot with 3 & 8. The pincers are I2 with 4 & 3 and A6 with 4 & 8. The intersection between I2 and A6 is I6 with 4 & 5. Since 4 is in both of the pincer cells, you can eliminate it as an option from I6.\n\n9\n\n### XY-wing\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Rule out numbers when 3 cells with 2 values each form an angle.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg)\n   **Rule out numbers when 3 cells with 2 values each form an angle.** The values should only have 3 different potential numbers between them. If one cell has candidates X and Y and the other 2 cells could be X and Z or Y and Z, then no other cells in the same row, column, or box can contain the Z value.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-8) X Research source\n   \n   - Forming an angle means that 2 of the cells are in the same row or column, but the third cell can be positioned anywhere that shares a row, column, or box with one of the others.\n   - *Example:* B1 could be 4 or 9, B5 could be 1 or 9, and D1 could be 1 or 4. The cell D5 couldn’t be 1 since it would make filling in B1 impossible. That means you can eliminate 1 as a candidate from D5.\n\n10\n\n### Swordfish\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Test the possibilities in a chain of numbers found in 3 rows or columns.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg)\n   **Test the possibilities in a chain of numbers found in 3 rows or columns.** Check your puzzle for 3 separate rows or columns where a potential digit can only fit into 2 or 3 cells in each. You should be able to connect the cells if you drew lines through the columns and rows. After you connect all of the cells you can erase the potential candidate from any other cells in those rows or columns.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-9) X Research source\n   \n   - *Example:* The only cells in rows B, E, and F that can contain 1 are B1, B7, E5, E7, F1, and F5. Since you can draw a closed loop connecting these cells, you can erase 1 from any other cells in the same columns as these cells.\n\n11\n\n### Unique rectangle\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n1. [![Unique rectangles work if 4 cells have the same pair of numbers.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg)\n   **Unique rectangles work if 4 cells have the same pair of numbers.** Every sudoku puzzle has a unique solution, but you might be faced with multiple possibilities if there are 2 sets of 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that have the pair of potential numbers. Check if any of the 4 cells have additional candidates in them. If so, then you can erase the original pair of digits since it would make the puzzle impossible to solve.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-10) X Research source\n   \n   - *Example:* 2 & 3 are the only potential candidates in D4, D5, and I4. I5 has 1, 2, 3, & 8 as potential candidates. With a unique rectangle, you can eliminate 2 & 3 as options from I5.\n\n## Expert Q\\&A\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n## Video\n## Tips\n- Avoid guessing any of the numbers in the puzzle since there’s always a way to work out the solution logically. Take a little extra time to scan through the puzzle again to see if you missed anything.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-11) X Research source\n  Thanks\n  \n  [Helpful 0](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)   [Not Helpful 0](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nSubmit a Tip\n\nAll tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published\n\nName\n\nPlease provide your name and last initial\n\n[Submit](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## You Might Also Like\n[![Sudoku Tricks](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cb\/Sudoku-Tricks-Step-23.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Sudoku-Tricks-Step-23.jpg.webp)The Best Tricks for Solving Hard Sudoku Puzzles ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cb\/Sudoku-Tricks-Step-23.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Sudoku-Tricks-Step-23.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Sudoku-Tricks)\n\n[![Solve Hard 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Cube](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Solve-a-2x2-Rubik%27s-Cube-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Solve-a-2x2-Rubik%27s-Cube-Step-10-Version-2.jpg.webp)Step-by-Step Instructions to Solve a 2x2 Rubik's Cube ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Solve-a-2x2-Rubik%27s-Cube-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Solve-a-2x2-Rubik%27s-Cube-Step-10-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-a-2x2-Rubik%27s-Cube)\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## References\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-1) <https:\/\/masteringsudoku.com\/how-to-solve-sudoku-with-pencil-marks\/>\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-2) <https:\/\/sudoku.com\/how-to-play\/how-to-solve-sudoku-puzzles-from-multiple-directions-at-once\/>\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-3) <https:\/\/www.conceptispuzzles.com\/index.aspx?uri=puzzle\/sudoku\/techniques>\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-4) <https:\/\/sudoku.com\/sudoku-rules\/pointing-pairs\/>\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-5) <https:\/\/www.sudokuonline.io\/tips\/advanced-sudoku-strategies>\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-6) <https:\/\/www.pennydellpuzzles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/How-to-Solve-Sudoku.pdf>\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-7) <https:\/\/sudoku.com\/sudoku-rules\/y-wing\/>\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-8) <https:\/\/www.pennydellpuzzles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/How-to-Solve-Sudoku.pdf>\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-9) <https:\/\/www.sudokuonline.io\/tips\/sudoku-swordfish-strategy>\n\n[More References (2)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#aiinfo)\n\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-10) <https:\/\/www.sudokuonline.io\/tips\/advanced-sudoku-strategies>\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-11) <https:\/\/www.gamesver.com\/sudoku-rules-for-beginners-all-you-need-to-know\/>\n\n## About This Article\n![Juliana Pache](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Juliana_Pache_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Juliana_Pache_.png)\n\nCo-authored by:\n\n[Juliana Pache](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Juliana-Pache)\n\nCrossword Puzzle Expert\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Juliana Pache](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Juliana-Pache) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Hunter Rising](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Hunter-Rising). Juliana Pache is a puzzle maker based in Brooklyn, NY. Juliana is passionate about Black diasporic legacies and creates puzzles that engage with Black popular culture. She founded Black Crossword, the premier destination for word gamers interested in Black culture and the diaspora. Black Crossword launched in 2023 and offers a free daily mini puzzle, with plans to launch standard-size puzzles under a subscription. There is also a book available for purchase that contains 100 mini-puzzles within it. Juliana has a BS in Media Studies and Production from Temple University and has previously worked in marketing and media for companies like Rolling Stone, VICE, and The FADER. Juliana and Black Crossword have been featured in the New York Times, BET, the Huffington Post, and Good Morning America. 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Please contact [support@wikihow.pro](mailto:support@wikihow.pro).\n\nSomething went wrong\n\n[Dismiss]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nSo you’ve filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you’re stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for [sudoku](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Do-Sudoku-Fast \"Do Sudoku Fast\"), you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out exactly where a number is supposed to go. If you want to know the best basic and advanced techniques to use when you’re stuck, keep reading so you can learn how to finish the puzzle\\!\n\n1. [![Writing down possible numbers for each cell lets you see your options.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/44\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg)\n   Since numbers can only appear once in each row, column, and [3 x 3 box](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-3x3-Sudoku-Puzzle \"Solve 3x3 Sudoku Puzzle\") in the puzzle, the candidates you can put in the empty squares are limited. Go through each cell and scan the row, column, and box that it’s in to figure out what numbers could still fit there. Write all of the potential candidates in the cell lightly with a pencil.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-1)\n   \n   - If seeing all of the possible numbers in the cells looks overwhelming, only notate the squares that have 2 or 3 potential numbers instead.\n\n1. [![If only one number fits in a cell, then it has to go there.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/58\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg)\n   After you fill in your notation, you might find some obvious cells to fill in that you missed earlier. Scan through each of the cells on the puzzle and see if there are any with just one possible solution. Since you know that no other numbers can fit there, that number is the only solution for that cell.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-2)\n   \n   - Once you fill in the number, check the row, column, and box that the cell was in and erase any other instances of that number.\n   - Be on the lookout for “hidden singles” as well. You can fill in a number if it isn’t written down anywhere else in the same row, column, or box, even if there are other candidates in that cell.\n\n1. [![Cells with 2 numbers in the same row, column, or box limit other cells.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg)\n   Check for 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that can only contain the same 2 possible numbers, which is known as a “naked pair.” Even though you don’t know exactly which number goes into each square, you can erase your notation for the other cells in the row, column, or box since they can never contain those values.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-3)\n   \n   - “Hidden pairs” are similar but a little trickier to find. The 2 cells are the only places where the numbers can be placed, but the cells may have notation for other potential candidates.\n\n1. [![Triples have only 3 possible numbers that could fit into the 3 cells.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/72\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg)\n   All 3 cells have to be in the same row, column, or box. “Naked” triples only have the 3 potential numbers while “hidden” triples have extra digits in the cells that make them harder to spot. All 3 of the potential candidates don’t have to appear in each of the cells, which can make them a little trickier to find.\n   \n   - *Example:* If the cells contain 1 & 5, 1 & 8, and 5 & 8, the values 1, 5, and 8 have to go into those cells and can’t be written in other cells in the same row, column, or box.\n\n1. [![Eliminate numbers from a row or column if they’re constrained to one box.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg)\n   Pointing pairs and triples are when there are only 2 or 3 cells with the same potential numbers in a 3 x 3 box. The cells must also be in the same row or column. Since you know that the number has to go in one of those 2 cells, you can erase any other time you notated the number in the same row or column.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-4)\n   \n   - *Example:* If A1 and C1 are the only cells in a box with 4 as a potential candidate, you can erase all other 4s from the first column.\n   - *Example:* If D4, D5, and D6 are the only spots in the middle box that can contain 8, no other cells in the D row can have 8.\n   - You won’t know which cell the number goes into quite yet, but pointing pairs and triples should help narrow down your options for other cells.\n\n1. [![Test a number in a cell with 2 digits to see how it affects the other cells.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a2\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg)\n   To use a forcing chain, look for multiple cells that have 2 potential numbers. You should be able to draw lines through the rows and columns to connect all the cells in the chain. Test each number in one of the cells and check how they fill in the rest of the chain. If there’s one cell that uses the same number no matter which digit you filled in originally, then you can assume that it’s the only solution.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-5)\n   \n   - Mark the square you started in so you can retrace your steps.\n\n1. [![The X-wing technique reveals numbers for cells in 2 columns and rows.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg)\n   To use an X-wing, check for a row that has a potential candidate that can only fit into 2 cells. Check for another row in the puzzle that has the same candidate in 2 cells that are in the same columns as the first row candidates. The potential number can only fit once in each of the columns, so you can erase it from any other cells in those columns.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-6)\n   \n   - *Example:* If a 2 could only be in the 1st and 7th columns in rows E and G, then you can erase 2 as a potential candidate from all other cells in those rows.\n\n1. [![You can eliminate numbers from intersections between rows and columns.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg)\n   Start by finding a cell with only 2 possible numbers to use as a “pivot.” Check the same row, column, and box for “pincers”, which are other cells with 2 potential candidates that share at least 1 number with the pivot. The second number in each of the pincers should be the same. Check the cell where the pincers would intersect on the puzzle to see if it shares a number with them. If it does, then you can eliminate it from the puzzle.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-7)\n   \n   - *Example:* A2 is the pivot with 3 & 8. The pincers are I2 with 4 & 3 and A6 with 4 & 8. The intersection between I2 and A6 is I6 with 4 & 5. Since 4 is in both of the pincer cells, you can eliminate it as an option from I6.\n\n1. [![Rule out numbers when 3 cells with 2 values each form an angle.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg)\n   The values should only have 3 different potential numbers between them. If one cell has candidates X and Y and the other 2 cells could be X and Z or Y and Z, then no other cells in the same row, column, or box can contain the Z value.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-8)\n   \n   - Forming an angle means that 2 of the cells are in the same row or column, but the third cell can be positioned anywhere that shares a row, column, or box with one of the others.\n   - *Example:* B1 could be 4 or 9, B5 could be 1 or 9, and D1 could be 1 or 4. The cell D5 couldn’t be 1 since it would make filling in B1 impossible. That means you can eliminate 1 as a candidate from D5.\n\n1. [![Test the possibilities in a chain of numbers found in 3 rows or columns.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/da\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg)\n   Check your puzzle for 3 separate rows or columns where a potential digit can only fit into 2 or 3 cells in each. You should be able to connect the cells if you drew lines through the columns and rows. After you connect all of the cells you can erase the potential candidate from any other cells in those rows or columns.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-9)\n   \n   - *Example:* The only cells in rows B, E, and F that can contain 1 are B1, B7, E5, E7, F1, and F5. Since you can draw a closed loop connecting these cells, you can erase 1 from any other cells in the same columns as these cells.\n\n1. [![Unique rectangles work if 4 cells have the same pair of numbers.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#\/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg)\n   Every sudoku puzzle has a unique solution, but you might be faced with multiple possibilities if there are 2 sets of 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that have the pair of potential numbers. Check if any of the 4 cells have additional candidates in them. If so, then you can erase the original pair of digits since it would make the puzzle impossible to solve.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-10)\n   \n   - *Example:* 2 & 3 are the only potential candidates in D4, D5, and I4. I5 has 1, 2, 3, & 8 as potential candidates. With a unique rectangle, you can eliminate 2 & 3 as options from I5.\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n## Video\n- Avoid guessing any of the numbers in the puzzle since there’s always a way to work out the solution logically. Take a little extra time to scan through the puzzle again to see if you missed anything.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-11)\n  Thanks\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\nAdvertisement\n## References\nAbout This Article\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 360,000 times.\n\nReader Success Stories\n\n- ![Anonymous](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n  \n  Anonymous\n  \n  Apr 7, 2024\n  \"It is really helpful when you get stuck.\"\n## Did this article help you?\n\nwikiHow Tech Help Pro:\n\nDevelop the tech skills you need for work and life\n\n[Let's do this\\!](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Tech-Help-Pro?id=sdapl)\n\n[X](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck)\n\nFor over two decades, we’ve been on a mission: to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. 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Boilerpipe Text	Download Article Download Article So you’ve filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you’re stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for sudoku , you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out exactly where a number is supposed to go. If you want to know the best basic and advanced techniques to use when you’re stuck, keep reading so you can learn how to finish the puzzle! Since numbers can only appear once in each row, column, and 3 x 3 box in the puzzle, the candidates you can put in the empty squares are limited. Go through each cell and scan the row, column, and box that it’s in to figure out what numbers could still fit there. Write all of the potential candidates in the cell lightly with a pencil. [1] If seeing all of the possible numbers in the cells looks overwhelming, only notate the squares that have 2 or 3 potential numbers instead. Advertisement After you fill in your notation, you might find some obvious cells to fill in that you missed earlier. Scan through each of the cells on the puzzle and see if there are any with just one possible solution. Since you know that no other numbers can fit there, that number is the only solution for that cell. [2] Once you fill in the number, check the row, column, and box that the cell was in and erase any other instances of that number. Be on the lookout for “hidden singles” as well. You can fill in a number if it isn’t written down anywhere else in the same row, column, or box, even if there are other candidates in that cell. Check for 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that can only contain the same 2 possible numbers, which is known as a “naked pair.” Even though you don’t know exactly which number goes into each square, you can erase your notation for the other cells in the row, column, or box since they can never contain those values. [3] “Hidden pairs” are similar but a little trickier to find. The 2 cells are the only places where the numbers can be placed, but the cells may have notation for other potential candidates. Advertisement All 3 cells have to be in the same row, column, or box. “Naked” triples only have the 3 potential numbers while “hidden” triples have extra digits in the cells that make them harder to spot. All 3 of the potential candidates don’t have to appear in each of the cells, which can make them a little trickier to find. Example: If the cells contain 1 & 5, 1 & 8, and 5 & 8, the values 1, 5, and 8 have to go into those cells and can’t be written in other cells in the same row, column, or box. Pointing pairs and triples are when there are only 2 or 3 cells with the same potential numbers in a 3 x 3 box. The cells must also be in the same row or column. Since you know that the number has to go in one of those 2 cells, you can erase any other time you notated the number in the same row or column. [4] Example: If A1 and C1 are the only cells in a box with 4 as a potential candidate, you can erase all other 4s from the first column. Example: If D4, D5, and D6 are the only spots in the middle box that can contain 8, no other cells in the D row can have 8. You won’t know which cell the number goes into quite yet, but pointing pairs and triples should help narrow down your options for other cells. Advertisement To use a forcing chain, look for multiple cells that have 2 potential numbers. You should be able to draw lines through the rows and columns to connect all the cells in the chain. Test each number in one of the cells and check how they fill in the rest of the chain. If there’s one cell that uses the same number no matter which digit you filled in originally, then you can assume that it’s the only solution. [5] Mark the square you started in so you can retrace your steps. To use an X-wing, check for a row that has a potential candidate that can only fit into 2 cells. Check for another row in the puzzle that has the same candidate in 2 cells that are in the same columns as the first row candidates. The potential number can only fit once in each of the columns, so you can erase it from any other cells in those columns. [6] Example: If a 2 could only be in the 1st and 7th columns in rows E and G, then you can erase 2 as a potential candidate from all other cells in those rows. Advertisement Start by finding a cell with only 2 possible numbers to use as a “pivot.” Check the same row, column, and box for “pincers”, which are other cells with 2 potential candidates that share at least 1 number with the pivot. The second number in each of the pincers should be the same. Check the cell where the pincers would intersect on the puzzle to see if it shares a number with them. If it does, then you can eliminate it from the puzzle. [7] Example: A2 is the pivot with 3 & 8. The pincers are I2 with 4 & 3 and A6 with 4 & 8. The intersection between I2 and A6 is I6 with 4 & 5. Since 4 is in both of the pincer cells, you can eliminate it as an option from I6. The values should only have 3 different potential numbers between them. If one cell has candidates X and Y and the other 2 cells could be X and Z or Y and Z, then no other cells in the same row, column, or box can contain the Z value. [8] Forming an angle means that 2 of the cells are in the same row or column, but the third cell can be positioned anywhere that shares a row, column, or box with one of the others. Example: B1 could be 4 or 9, B5 could be 1 or 9, and D1 could be 1 or 4. The cell D5 couldn’t be 1 since it would make filling in B1 impossible. That means you can eliminate 1 as a candidate from D5. Advertisement Check your puzzle for 3 separate rows or columns where a potential digit can only fit into 2 or 3 cells in each. You should be able to connect the cells if you drew lines through the columns and rows. After you connect all of the cells you can erase the potential candidate from any other cells in those rows or columns. [9] Example: The only cells in rows B, E, and F that can contain 1 are B1, B7, E5, E7, F1, and F5. Since you can draw a closed loop connecting these cells, you can erase 1 from any other cells in the same columns as these cells. Every sudoku puzzle has a unique solution, but you might be faced with multiple possibilities if there are 2 sets of 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that have the pair of potential numbers. Check if any of the 4 cells have additional candidates in them. If so, then you can erase the original pair of digits since it would make the puzzle impossible to solve. [10] Example: 2 & 3 are the only potential candidates in D4, D5, and I4. I5 has 1, 2, 3, & 8 as potential candidates. With a unique rectangle, you can eliminate 2 & 3 as options from I5. Advertisement Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement Video Avoid guessing any of the numbers in the puzzle since there’s always a way to work out the solution logically. Take a little extra time to scan through the puzzle again to see if you missed anything. [11] Thanks Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement References About This Article Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 360,000 times. Reader Success Stories Anonymous Apr 7, 2024 "It is really helpful when you get stuck." Did this article help you? wikiHow Tech Help Pro: Develop the tech skills you need for work and life Let's do this! X For over two decades, we’ve been on a mission: to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. Our articles are human written and expert endorsed to ensure readers like you get reliable, current information. Before you get back to learning, we would be grateful if you could take a minute to support wikiHow. Any amount helps. Thank you. - -
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Learn why people trust wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) - [Categories](https://www.wikihow.com/Special:CategoryListing "Special:CategoryListing") - [Hobbies and Crafts](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Hobbies-and-Crafts "Category:Hobbies and Crafts") - [Games](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Games "Category:Games") - [Puzzles and Memory Games](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Puzzles-and-Memory-Games "Category:Puzzles and Memory Games") - [Mathematical Puzzles](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Mathematical-Puzzles "Category:Mathematical Puzzles") # [How to Solve Sudoku when Stuck](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) Explore this Article IN THIS ARTICLE [1 Notation](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Notation) [2 Sole candidate](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Sole-candidate) [3 Naked and hidden pairs](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Naked-and-hidden-pairs) [4 Naked and hidden triples](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Naked-and-hidden-triples) [5 Pointing pairs and triples](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Pointing-pairs-and-triples) [6 Forcing chain](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Forcing-chain) [7 X-wing](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#X-wing) [8 Y-wing](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Y-wing) [9 XY-wing](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#XY-wing) [10 Swordfish](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Swordfish) [11 Unique rectangle](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Unique-rectangle) [\+ Show 8 more...](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) [\- Show less...](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) Other Sections [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#Video) [Tips and Warnings](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#tips) [Related Articles](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#relatedwikihows) [References](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#References) Co-authored by [Juliana Pache](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Juliana-Pache) and [Hunter Rising](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Hunter-Rising) [Last Updated: December 16, 2025](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) [Fact Checked](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) X This article was co-authored by [Juliana Pache](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Juliana-Pache) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Hunter Rising](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Hunter-Rising). Juliana Pache is a puzzle maker based in Brooklyn, NY. Juliana is passionate about Black diasporic legacies and creates puzzles that engage with Black popular culture. She founded Black Crossword, the premier destination for word gamers interested in Black culture and the diaspora. Black Crossword launched in 2023 and offers a free daily mini puzzle, with plans to launch standard-size puzzles under a subscription. There is also a book available for purchase that contains 100 mini-puzzles within it. Juliana has a BS in Media Studies and Production from Temple University and has previously worked in marketing and media for companies like Rolling Stone, VICE, and The FADER. Juliana and Black Crossword have been featured in the New York Times, BET, the Huffington Post, and Good Morning America. There are [9 references](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 360,000 times. So you’ve filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you’re stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for [sudoku](https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Sudoku-Fast "Do Sudoku Fast"), you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out exactly where a number is supposed to go. If you want to know the best basic and advanced techniques to use when you’re stuck, keep reading so you can learn how to finish the puzzle\! ## Steps 1 ### Notation [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Writing down possible numbers for each cell lets you see your options.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/44/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg) Writing down possible numbers for each cell lets you see your options. Since numbers can only appear once in each row, column, and [3 x 3 box](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-3x3-Sudoku-Puzzle "Solve 3x3 Sudoku Puzzle") in the puzzle, the candidates you can put in the empty squares are limited. Go through each cell and scan the row, column, and box that it’s in to figure out what numbers could still fit there. Write all of the potential candidates in the cell lightly with a pencil.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-1) X Research source - If seeing all of the possible numbers in the cells looks overwhelming, only notate the squares that have 2 or 3 potential numbers instead. 2 ### Sole candidate [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![If only one number fits in a cell, then it has to go there.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/58/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg) If only one number fits in a cell, then it has to go there. After you fill in your notation, you might find some obvious cells to fill in that you missed earlier. Scan through each of the cells on the puzzle and see if there are any with just one possible solution. Since you know that no other numbers can fit there, that number is the only solution for that cell.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-2) X Research source - Once you fill in the number, check the row, column, and box that the cell was in and erase any other instances of that number. - Be on the lookout for “hidden singles” as well. You can fill in a number if it isn’t written down anywhere else in the same row, column, or box, even if there are other candidates in that cell. 3 ### Naked and hidden pairs [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Cells with 2 numbers in the same row, column, or box limit other cells.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/88/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg) Cells with 2 numbers in the same row, column, or box limit other cells. Check for 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that can only contain the same 2 possible numbers, which is known as a “naked pair.” Even though you don’t know exactly which number goes into each square, you can erase your notation for the other cells in the row, column, or box since they can never contain those values.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-3) X Research source - “Hidden pairs” are similar but a little trickier to find. The 2 cells are the only places where the numbers can be placed, but the cells may have notation for other potential candidates. 4 ### Naked and hidden triples [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Triples have only 3 possible numbers that could fit into the 3 cells.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/72/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg) Triples have only 3 possible numbers that could fit into the 3 cells. All 3 cells have to be in the same row, column, or box. “Naked” triples only have the 3 potential numbers while “hidden” triples have extra digits in the cells that make them harder to spot. All 3 of the potential candidates don’t have to appear in each of the cells, which can make them a little trickier to find. - Example: If the cells contain 1 & 5, 1 & 8, and 5 & 8, the values 1, 5, and 8 have to go into those cells and can’t be written in other cells in the same row, column, or box. 5 ### Pointing pairs and triples [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Eliminate numbers from a row or column if they’re constrained to one box.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8e/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg) Eliminate numbers from a row or column if they’re constrained to one box. Pointing pairs and triples are when there are only 2 or 3 cells with the same potential numbers in a 3 x 3 box. The cells must also be in the same row or column. Since you know that the number has to go in one of those 2 cells, you can erase any other time you notated the number in the same row or column.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-4) X Research source - Example: If A1 and C1 are the only cells in a box with 4 as a potential candidate, you can erase all other 4s from the first column. - Example: If D4, D5, and D6 are the only spots in the middle box that can contain 8, no other cells in the D row can have 8. - You won’t know which cell the number goes into quite yet, but pointing pairs and triples should help narrow down your options for other cells. 6 ### Forcing chain [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Test a number in a cell with 2 digits to see how it affects the other cells.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a2/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg) Test a number in a cell with 2 digits to see how it affects the other cells. To use a forcing chain, look for multiple cells that have 2 potential numbers. You should be able to draw lines through the rows and columns to connect all the cells in the chain. Test each number in one of the cells and check how they fill in the rest of the chain. If there’s one cell that uses the same number no matter which digit you filled in originally, then you can assume that it’s the only solution.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-5) X Research source - Mark the square you started in so you can retrace your steps. 7 ### X-wing [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![The X-wing technique reveals numbers for cells in 2 columns and rows.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg) The X-wing technique reveals numbers for cells in 2 columns and rows. To use an X-wing, check for a row that has a potential candidate that can only fit into 2 cells. Check for another row in the puzzle that has the same candidate in 2 cells that are in the same columns as the first row candidates. The potential number can only fit once in each of the columns, so you can erase it from any other cells in those columns.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-6) X Research source - Example: If a 2 could only be in the 1st and 7th columns in rows E and G, then you can erase 2 as a potential candidate from all other cells in those rows. 8 ### Y-wing [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![You can eliminate numbers from intersections between rows and columns.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/ba/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg) You can eliminate numbers from intersections between rows and columns. Start by finding a cell with only 2 possible numbers to use as a “pivot.” Check the same row, column, and box for “pincers”, which are other cells with 2 potential candidates that share at least 1 number with the pivot. The second number in each of the pincers should be the same. Check the cell where the pincers would intersect on the puzzle to see if it shares a number with them. If it does, then you can eliminate it from the puzzle.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-7) X Research source - Example: A2 is the pivot with 3 & 8. The pincers are I2 with 4 & 3 and A6 with 4 & 8. The intersection between I2 and A6 is I6 with 4 & 5. Since 4 is in both of the pincer cells, you can eliminate it as an option from I6. 9 ### XY-wing [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Rule out numbers when 3 cells with 2 values each form an angle.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d3/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg) Rule out numbers when 3 cells with 2 values each form an angle. The values should only have 3 different potential numbers between them. If one cell has candidates X and Y and the other 2 cells could be X and Z or Y and Z, then no other cells in the same row, column, or box can contain the Z value.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-8) X Research source - Forming an angle means that 2 of the cells are in the same row or column, but the third cell can be positioned anywhere that shares a row, column, or box with one of the others. - Example: B1 could be 4 or 9, B5 could be 1 or 9, and D1 could be 1 or 4. The cell D5 couldn’t be 1 since it would make filling in B1 impossible. That means you can eliminate 1 as a candidate from D5. 10 ### Swordfish [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Test the possibilities in a chain of numbers found in 3 rows or columns.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/da/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg) Test the possibilities in a chain of numbers found in 3 rows or columns. Check your puzzle for 3 separate rows or columns where a potential digit can only fit into 2 or 3 cells in each. You should be able to connect the cells if you drew lines through the columns and rows. After you connect all of the cells you can erase the potential candidate from any other cells in those rows or columns.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-9) X Research source - Example: The only cells in rows B, E, and F that can contain 1 are B1, B7, E5, E7, F1, and F5. Since you can draw a closed loop connecting these cells, you can erase 1 from any other cells in the same columns as these cells. 11 ### Unique rectangle [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) 1. [![Unique rectangles work if 4 cells have the same pair of numbers.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/30/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg) Unique rectangles work if 4 cells have the same pair of numbers. Every sudoku puzzle has a unique solution, but you might be faced with multiple possibilities if there are 2 sets of 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that have the pair of potential numbers. Check if any of the 4 cells have additional candidates in them. If so, then you can erase the original pair of digits since it would make the puzzle impossible to solve.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-10) X Research source - Example: 2 & 3 are the only potential candidates in D4, D5, and I4. I5 has 1, 2, 3, & 8 as potential candidates. With a unique rectangle, you can eliminate 2 & 3 as options from I5. ## Expert Q\&A Search [Add New Question]() Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement ## Video ## Tips - Avoid guessing any of the numbers in the puzzle since there’s always a way to work out the solution logically. Take a little extra time to scan through the puzzle again to see if you missed anything.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-11) X Research source Thanks [Helpful 0](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) [Not Helpful 0](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial [Submit](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! 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[↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-1) <https://masteringsudoku.com/how-to-solve-sudoku-with-pencil-marks/> 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-2) <https://sudoku.com/how-to-play/how-to-solve-sudoku-puzzles-from-multiple-directions-at-once/> 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-3) <https://www.conceptispuzzles.com/index.aspx?uri=puzzle/sudoku/techniques> 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-4) <https://sudoku.com/sudoku-rules/pointing-pairs/> 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-5) <https://www.sudokuonline.io/tips/advanced-sudoku-strategies> 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-6) <https://www.pennydellpuzzles.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/How-to-Solve-Sudoku.pdf> 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-7) <https://sudoku.com/sudoku-rules/y-wing/> 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-8) <https://www.pennydellpuzzles.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/How-to-Solve-Sudoku.pdf> 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-9) <https://www.sudokuonline.io/tips/sudoku-swordfish-strategy> [More References (2)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#aiinfo) 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-10) <https://www.sudokuonline.io/tips/advanced-sudoku-strategies> 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_ref-11) <https://www.gamesver.com/sudoku-rules-for-beginners-all-you-need-to-know/> ## About This Article ![Juliana Pache](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9c/Juliana_Pache_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Juliana_Pache_.png) Co-authored by: [Juliana Pache](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Juliana-Pache) Crossword Puzzle Expert This article was co-authored by [Juliana Pache](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Juliana-Pache) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Hunter Rising](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Hunter-Rising). Juliana Pache is a puzzle maker based in Brooklyn, NY. Juliana is passionate about Black diasporic legacies and creates puzzles that engage with Black popular culture. She founded Black Crossword, the premier destination for word gamers interested in Black culture and the diaspora. Black Crossword launched in 2023 and offers a free daily mini puzzle, with plans to launch standard-size puzzles under a subscription. There is also a book available for purchase that contains 100 mini-puzzles within it. Juliana has a BS in Media Studies and Production from Temple University and has previously worked in marketing and media for companies like Rolling Stone, VICE, and The FADER. Juliana and Black Crossword have been featured in the New York Times, BET, the Huffington Post, and Good Morning America. 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Readable Markdown	[![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck) So you’ve filled in all of the numbers you can on a sudoku puzzle, but now you’re stumped on what to fill in next. Even though you can always work out the solution for [sudoku](https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Sudoku-Fast "Do Sudoku Fast"), you may have to try a few different strategies to figure out exactly where a number is supposed to go. If you want to know the best basic and advanced techniques to use when you’re stuck, keep reading so you can learn how to finish the puzzle\! 1. [![Writing down possible numbers for each cell lets you see your options.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/44/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-1.jpg) Since numbers can only appear once in each row, column, and [3 x 3 box](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-3x3-Sudoku-Puzzle "Solve 3x3 Sudoku Puzzle") in the puzzle, the candidates you can put in the empty squares are limited. Go through each cell and scan the row, column, and box that it’s in to figure out what numbers could still fit there. Write all of the potential candidates in the cell lightly with a pencil.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-1) - If seeing all of the possible numbers in the cells looks overwhelming, only notate the squares that have 2 or 3 potential numbers instead. 1. [![If only one number fits in a cell, then it has to go there.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/58/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-2.jpg) After you fill in your notation, you might find some obvious cells to fill in that you missed earlier. Scan through each of the cells on the puzzle and see if there are any with just one possible solution. Since you know that no other numbers can fit there, that number is the only solution for that cell.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-2) - Once you fill in the number, check the row, column, and box that the cell was in and erase any other instances of that number. - Be on the lookout for “hidden singles” as well. You can fill in a number if it isn’t written down anywhere else in the same row, column, or box, even if there are other candidates in that cell. 1. [![Cells with 2 numbers in the same row, column, or box limit other cells.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/88/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-3.jpg) Check for 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that can only contain the same 2 possible numbers, which is known as a “naked pair.” Even though you don’t know exactly which number goes into each square, you can erase your notation for the other cells in the row, column, or box since they can never contain those values.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-3) - “Hidden pairs” are similar but a little trickier to find. The 2 cells are the only places where the numbers can be placed, but the cells may have notation for other potential candidates. 1. [![Triples have only 3 possible numbers that could fit into the 3 cells.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/72/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-4.jpg) All 3 cells have to be in the same row, column, or box. “Naked” triples only have the 3 potential numbers while “hidden” triples have extra digits in the cells that make them harder to spot. All 3 of the potential candidates don’t have to appear in each of the cells, which can make them a little trickier to find. - Example: If the cells contain 1 & 5, 1 & 8, and 5 & 8, the values 1, 5, and 8 have to go into those cells and can’t be written in other cells in the same row, column, or box. 1. [![Eliminate numbers from a row or column if they’re constrained to one box.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8e/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-5.jpg) Pointing pairs and triples are when there are only 2 or 3 cells with the same potential numbers in a 3 x 3 box. The cells must also be in the same row or column. Since you know that the number has to go in one of those 2 cells, you can erase any other time you notated the number in the same row or column.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-4) - Example: If A1 and C1 are the only cells in a box with 4 as a potential candidate, you can erase all other 4s from the first column. - Example: If D4, D5, and D6 are the only spots in the middle box that can contain 8, no other cells in the D row can have 8. - You won’t know which cell the number goes into quite yet, but pointing pairs and triples should help narrow down your options for other cells. 1. [![Test a number in a cell with 2 digits to see how it affects the other cells.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a2/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-6.jpg) To use a forcing chain, look for multiple cells that have 2 potential numbers. You should be able to draw lines through the rows and columns to connect all the cells in the chain. Test each number in one of the cells and check how they fill in the rest of the chain. If there’s one cell that uses the same number no matter which digit you filled in originally, then you can assume that it’s the only solution.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-5) - Mark the square you started in so you can retrace your steps. 1. [![The X-wing technique reveals numbers for cells in 2 columns and rows.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6a/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-7.jpg) To use an X-wing, check for a row that has a potential candidate that can only fit into 2 cells. Check for another row in the puzzle that has the same candidate in 2 cells that are in the same columns as the first row candidates. The potential number can only fit once in each of the columns, so you can erase it from any other cells in those columns.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-6) - Example: If a 2 could only be in the 1st and 7th columns in rows E and G, then you can erase 2 as a potential candidate from all other cells in those rows. 1. [![You can eliminate numbers from intersections between rows and columns.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/ba/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-8.jpg) Start by finding a cell with only 2 possible numbers to use as a “pivot.” Check the same row, column, and box for “pincers”, which are other cells with 2 potential candidates that share at least 1 number with the pivot. The second number in each of the pincers should be the same. Check the cell where the pincers would intersect on the puzzle to see if it shares a number with them. If it does, then you can eliminate it from the puzzle.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-7) - Example: A2 is the pivot with 3 & 8. The pincers are I2 with 4 & 3 and A6 with 4 & 8. The intersection between I2 and A6 is I6 with 4 & 5. Since 4 is in both of the pincer cells, you can eliminate it as an option from I6. 1. [![Rule out numbers when 3 cells with 2 values each form an angle.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d3/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-9.jpg) The values should only have 3 different potential numbers between them. If one cell has candidates X and Y and the other 2 cells could be X and Z or Y and Z, then no other cells in the same row, column, or box can contain the Z value.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-8) - Forming an angle means that 2 of the cells are in the same row or column, but the third cell can be positioned anywhere that shares a row, column, or box with one of the others. - Example: B1 could be 4 or 9, B5 could be 1 or 9, and D1 could be 1 or 4. The cell D5 couldn’t be 1 since it would make filling in B1 impossible. That means you can eliminate 1 as a candidate from D5. 1. [![Test the possibilities in a chain of numbers found in 3 rows or columns.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/da/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-10.jpg) Check your puzzle for 3 separate rows or columns where a potential digit can only fit into 2 or 3 cells in each. You should be able to connect the cells if you drew lines through the columns and rows. After you connect all of the cells you can erase the potential candidate from any other cells in those rows or columns.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-9) - Example: The only cells in rows B, E, and F that can contain 1 are B1, B7, E5, E7, F1, and F5. Since you can draw a closed loop connecting these cells, you can erase 1 from any other cells in the same columns as these cells. 1. [![Unique rectangles work if 4 cells have the same pair of numbers.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/30/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg/v4-460px-Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#/Image:Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck-Step-11.jpg) Every sudoku puzzle has a unique solution, but you might be faced with multiple possibilities if there are 2 sets of 2 cells in the same row, column, or box that have the pair of potential numbers. Check if any of the 4 cells have additional candidates in them. If so, then you can erase the original pair of digits since it would make the puzzle impossible to solve.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-10) - Example: 2 & 3 are the only potential candidates in D4, D5, and I4. I5 has 1, 2, 3, & 8 as potential candidates. With a unique rectangle, you can eliminate 2 & 3 as options from I5. Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement ## Video - Avoid guessing any of the numbers in the puzzle since there’s always a way to work out the solution logically. Take a little extra time to scan through the puzzle again to see if you missed anything.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Sudoku-when-Stuck#_note-11) Thanks Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! Advertisement ## References About This Article Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 360,000 times. 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