sudoku ?, after I eliminate all possible #s' why does it seem there has to be a riddle or guess work involved?

Question

WhenI have written all possible numbers that could go in each square and then I eliminate what does not, I am able to come up with some definate numbers that go in a paticular box but I am still left with boxes that have more that one number that could go there. I check my answers of the ones I am certian of and I am right. but I still have multiple # possiblilties left in boxes. It seems then that the only thing to do is guess, which you're not supposed to do. so what other Logic is there to solving a puzzle?

Answer 1

This is where I play sudoku
http://www.jigsawdoku.com/
I never have a problem with not being able to figure it out...they do get a little difficult...but i never have to guess. But I think on that page there is a link that takes you to some tips for solving the puzzles...good luck.

Answer 2

I use 3 strategies when solving a Sudoku puzzle:

1 - Look in a vertical and horizontal direction to see where the numbers line up 1-9.
2 - Look in the 3 horizontal or 3 vertical boxes to see where your number should go.
3 - Reduce possible numbers based on horizontal or vertical restrictions on adjacent rows and columns.

For example, if you have 2 squares vertically in a 9 square grid where a number HAS to be, you can then look at the other two grids and elimintate that number from squares that line up vertically.

Example:

1 X X X X X 4 5 6
2 X X X X X 7 8 9
5 6 7 1 X X X X X

You know that the bottom three squares on the right have to be 1, 2, and 3... so you can know that the squares right after the one on the bottom row HAVE to be 8 and 9.

If you work out enough of these conditions, then you can eventually break down the puzzle's logic and solve it.

I know, not much help, but that's my thinking. Wish I could articulate it better.

Answer 3

You have to go to the other boxes you still have left open and do the same thing. Sometimes there are numbers in your other squares that can only go in a certain square so that eliminates one of your choices for the original box. It's a thinking game....just have to keep at it!

Answer 4

You have to determine if each of the possible numbers in a square would eliminate possible number placements in other boxes.

Sudoku puzzles are not always striaght forward.

You could say that guessing is necessary, but if you look into them, many of the guesses would not work because they would preclude the completion of the puzzle in other areas of the puzzle.

Answer 5

make sure u check that if ther are for example in one box the possibilities 2 and 6 in two boxes (only them numbers) then no other number in that box can be a 2 or 6.. similally for rows and columns.. also remember it can happen with more than two numbers eg/ 1,4,5 only in three boxes.. u get it? x

Answer 6

There shouldn't be any guessing involeved. There's always something you miss. Try filling in the boxes with numbers that it could be, and then try and figure it out. It helps.

Answer 7

the respond: TIME The time has come, wintry climate is right here and those yellow bears disapear. (...I turn polar bears white ) The time has previous as guy seems decrease back with a sigh and a tear in his eye. (...and that i visit make you cry.) As time is held boys circulate their legs yet of direction the lavatory begs (...I make adult males ought to pee) As time marches on ladies loose their blush and turn a comb for their brush (...and girls folk comb their hair.) As time passes For those held severe their end is nigh (...I make celebrities look stupid ) As time catches up absolutely everyone seems to be equivalent as quickly as we get to the ideal sequal (...and widespread human beings look as though celebrities.) As time turns without it we've flour and water With it we've breakfast for my daughter (...I turn pancakes brown ) As time revolves How does one turn water and wine into something so superb )...and make your champane bubble.) As time runs out The greater in a minute you attempt and squeeze the less you're able to do comfortably. (...in case you sqeeze me, i'm going to pop. ) As time ticks each and all the time that has previous guy won't be able to comprehand something so super. (...in case you inspect me, you will pop. )

Answer 8

process of elimination is key

Answer 9

I had the same problem until I watched this video:
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/348621/how_to_solve_any_sudoko_puzzel/

Answer 10

you are either wrong somewhere or you guess and check if it is right until it is right.