Starter Path
Beginner Sudoku Techniques
Build a calm, repeatable flow with scanning, singles, pairs, and clean notes—no guessing required.
Baseline
Scanning / Cross-Hatching
Block rows and columns to find lone cells in each box before anything else.
Placement
Naked Singles
When only one candidate remains in a cell, place it confidently.
Placement
Hidden Singles
Find the only spot a number can fit in a row, column, or box—even with other notes present.
Elimination
Naked Pairs / Triples
Pair up candidates to clear them from the rest of the unit and reveal new singles.
Elimination
Hidden Pairs / Triples
When two numbers only fit two cells, lock them in and remove other notes there.
Product
How to Use Zen Garden
Notes mode, undo, hints, music, and mobile controls for a calmer solve.
Next step
Step Up to Advanced
Ready for harder grids? Learn pointing pairs, fish patterns, and chains.