Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to take your Sudoku skills to the next level. Here are some advanced techniques expert solvers use:
1. Naked Pairs and Triples
If two or three cells contain the same candidate numbers, those candidates can be removed from other cells in the area.
2. Hidden Pairs
Sometimes two numbers can only appear in two specific cells. Spotting these unlocks big progress.
3. X-Wing Technique
This pattern-based strategy helps eliminate possibilities across rows and columns.
4. Swordfish Pattern
A more complex version of the X-Wing that expert players love.
5. Coloring Technique
Assigning colors to candidates helps detect contradictions and rule out wrong paths.
If you want puzzles designed specifically to practice these techniques, check out our advanced Sudoku books—they’re perfect for seasoned solvers.