Sudoku
Daily Sudoku is arguably one of the best puzzles available on the face of the earth. Not only is it fun to play, but it is also quite addictive and can boost your concentration and problem-solving skills. However, when you are new to this popular puzzle game, you are bound to make certain mistakes.
In this article, we explore some of the most common mistakes that new Sudoku players make. Let’s delve into them.
Trying to guess
When a player has a strong conviction that a particular number will be the answer, even though there is no logical justification for it, it can be quite alluring to place that number. The temptation is increased if the given digit quickly unlocks a number of options. In fact, players can get lucky and solve the puzzle more quickly.
A poor assumption, though, might render a puzzle unsolvable. The player typically discovers this error only at the very end of the game, when they eventually discover an impossible or repeated number. The time and effort invested will then be for nothing. It’s worth mentioning that sudoku is a logic game and doesn’t require guesswork to solve it.
Ignoring empty groups
A Sudoku puzzle may begin with groups that don’t contain any assigned numbers. Clues in this style of design typically cluster, giving the player the impression that it will be simpler to solve first the partially-filled groups. This is another common sudoku mistake made by new players. Sudoku is nothing more than mental gymnastics.
Although it may seem difficult to fill an empty group, the player only needs to pause and consider the following: if the clues are grouped together around the empty group, it indicates that it will be simpler and more efficient to transfer the information between the rows and columns connected to it.
Ignoring scrutinizing single rows and columns
Analyzing each row and column might not provide a quick answer when there are still a lot of unknowns, and the table is full of notes, but it can be quite helpful in eliminating candidates.
When this happens, you should search for a digit that could fit into a group of cells that are constrained. The digit cannot be a contender to any other cell in that group that does not line up with the row or column being examined because the answer will undoubtedly be found in those cells.
Avoiding using notes
Sudoku levels that are simple to solve don’t require the notes feature. To complete the grid, just use basic reasoning and a moderate amount of focus. Perhaps this clarifies why beginners feel that notes are not necessary.
This is arguably one of the most frequent Sudoku mistakes there are. Improved logical reasoning and memory are two advantages of playing Sudoku more often, which can eventually cause the value of notes to diminish. This might be the case for levels that are easy or intermediate but not for levels that are more difficult. Due to the increasing number of possibilities per cell, difficult Daily Sudoku puzzles may prove to be impossible to solve without the visual aid that notes provide.
It’s not about being dishonest. It entails giving you the chance to simultaneously consider a number of possibilities and directions.
