Hidden Single are a Sudoku-solving technique that refers to situations where a specific number can only occupy one unique position in a given row, column, or 3×3 grid. Even though the number may not be immediately visible within the area, once you have determined its unique position, you can confidently place it there. The key to this strategy lies in logical reasoning and the process of elimination, which simplifies the problem-solving process.
How to Identify Hidden Single?
To effectively identify hidden digits in Sudoku puzzles, follow these steps:
1.Observe a Specific Area
First select a row, column, or 3×3 grid as your area of interest. For example, you can select the first row to analyze the distribution of numbers and empty cells.
2.Eliminate Other Possibilities
Use the process of elimination to make sure that no other cell in the range can hold the number. This step is critical because you need to confirm that there are no other valid locations in the row, column, or 3×3 grid that can hold the number “1”.
For example, if other cells in the same row and column already contain the number “1”, then you can conclude that the row and column cannot be filled with 1, and you can be sure that the lower left corner of the 3×3 grid is indeed the only value “1”.
3.Confirm unique position
Once you determine that a particular number can only occupy one position in the selected area, you have identified a hidden singular number. For example, if you find the only candidate position for the number “1”, you should fill it in immediately without hesitation.
The “Hidden Single” technique is already an intermediate skill for cracking Sudoku games. If you have mastered the “Hidden Single” technique, then congratulations, you are already ready to try playing Medium Sudoku games and can challenge it immediately
April 13, 2025