Step-by-Step Sudoku Solver
Stuck on a puzzle? Type it in and we'll show you the next move, one at a time. Each step says which technique you used. You learn while you finish.
- 1Type in the puzzleFill in the cells you've already solved, plus the original clues. We need to know where you're stuck.
- 2Hit Next stepYou'll see the affected cells highlighted and the technique named (naked single, hidden single, pointing pair, and a few others).
- 3Keep goingEach press gives one move. You can stop and finish on your own as soon as you spot the pattern.
What this is for
The point of this tool isn't to finish your puzzle. It's to teach you the technique you missed. Use one step. Read what it tells you. Then keep playing.
If you just want the answer, use the plain solver instead. If you want to understand why you got stuck, you're in the right place.
Step-by-step FAQ
Which techniques does this solver know?
Naked singles, hidden singles, naked pairs, pointing pairs, and box-line reduction. That's enough to finish every easy, medium, and hard sudoku, and most expert ones.
What if it says it's stuck?
Your puzzle needs a chain technique (XY-wing, swordfish, coloring, forcing chains). Those aren't in this tool yet. For now, you can use the full solver to see the answer.
Can I rewind a step?
Not yet. clearing and starting over is the workaround. A back button is on the list.
Will I get better at sudoku from this?
Yes, if you read what each step says. The patterns repeat across puzzles. Once you recognise a hidden single by feel, you don't need this tool for it any more.