Sudoku Patterns
Patterns are numbers in boxes organized in specific ways that can help find other numbers
Introduction
Using patterns is another way to help you solve sudoku puzzles. Patterns are similar to techniques; they are another "tool" in your toolbelt. They could be listed on the techniques page but since there are many patterns they are listed in their own section.
Details
Patterns are essentially a series of completed numbers (either givens or numbers that have been filled in) in a specific order in one of the boxes on the sudoku grid.
Patterns help you organize the remaining numbers and eliminate possibilities in a box, and in related boxes, rows and columns. When you are familiar with and see specific patterns you will be able to analyze the area of the puzzle very quickly.
Patterns will help you speed up your analysis of a puzzle and will help you find numbers. If you study an area of a puzzle for a while you will probably see the numbers without recognizing specific patterns. But knowing patterns will help you see them quicker.
Skill Levels
Patterns can help with solving puzzles at all skill levels. Easy and medium puzzles will have more patterns at the start. Hard and expert level puzzles may not have patterns at the start but as you add numbers you will start to see patterns emerging.
Sudoku Hidden Patterns
Hidden patterns are very helpful because they will help you find numbers that are much more subtle. Hidden patterns are a bit tricky, but not too bad.
Since they are tricky, it is suggested that you learn about the other patterns before reading about hidden patterns, but take a look at them now if you want to. You can always review hidden patterns later again, after studying the other patterns.
Hidden patterns have their own page here.
Hidden Patterns >>
Pattern: The Wall Pattern
The wall is one of the easier patterns. It can be readily seen and used.
Pattern: The Corner Pattern
The corner pattern can help you find twins. It is an easier pattern to see and use.
Pattern: The Diagonal Pattern
The diagonal pattern helps you first find twins then other numbers.
Pattern: The Right Angle Pattern
The right angle pattern is related to the diagonal and corner patterns.
Pattern: The Opposite Pattern
Find an opposite pattern and you may have found a plus pattern.
Pattern: The Gate Pattern
When conditions are right the gate pattern can help pinpoint where numbers go. Conditions must be right but quite often they are.
Pattern: The Plus Pattern
You can find twins and ghost numbers when this pattern exists.
Pattern: The L Pattern
The L pattern helps you find twins and triplets.
Pattern: The T Pattern
The T pattern can help you find numbers in other parts of the puzzle.
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