How to Play Sudoku
Master the basics in 2 minutes — then jump straight into a puzzle.
Basic Rules
Sudoku is played on a 9×9 grid divided into nine 3×3 boxes. Your goal is simple:
- 1Each row must contain the digits 1 through 9 exactly once.
- 2Each column must contain the digits 1 through 9 exactly once.
- 3Each 3×3 box must contain the digits 1 through 9 exactly once.
💡 You never need to guess — every valid puzzle is solvable by logic alone.
Beginner Tips
- 01
Start with rows, columns, or boxes that already have the most numbers filled in.
- 02
Use pencil marks to track possible candidates in empty cells.
- 03
If a digit can only go in one cell within a row, column, or box, place it there.
A Brief History
Modern Sudoku was developed in Japan in the late 1970s and became a global phenomenon around 2005. Today it is one of the most popular logic puzzles worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the rules of Sudoku?
- Fill a 9×9 grid so that each row, each column, and each 3×3 box contains the digits 1 through 9 exactly once. No digit may repeat in any row, column, or box.
- Do I need to guess in Sudoku?
- No. Every valid Sudoku puzzle on Sudoku Learn is solvable by logic alone. If you feel stuck, use pencil marks to track candidates or take a hint.
- How should beginners start?
- Start with Easy puzzles that have more given numbers. Focus on rows, columns, or boxes that are nearly complete, and use notes mode to track possible digits.
Play Your First Puzzle
Starts on Easy — you can change difficulty anytime