The Guardian published Sudoku puzzle number 7374 on July 8, 2026, rated as medium difficulty. This classic logic puzzle challenges players to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 subgrids contain all digits from 1 to 9 exactly once.
Puzzle Characteristics
Medium-level Sudoku puzzles typically require more advanced techniques beyond simple scanning. Players may need to use strategies such as cross-hatching, pointing pairs, or hidden singles to eliminate possibilities and deduce correct placements. The puzzle's difficulty rating suggests it offers a satisfying challenge without being overly complex.
Solving Approach
Begin by identifying any numbers that are already placed in multiple rows or columns. Use these as anchors to reduce possibilities in intersecting rows, columns, and boxes. For instance, if the number 5 appears in the top-left box and also in the middle row, you can eliminate 5 from other cells in that row within the same box.
Common Techniques for Medium Puzzles
- Cross-hatching: Scan rows and columns to find where a number must go in a particular box by eliminating other options.
- Naked pairs: If two cells in a row, column, or box contain the same two possible numbers, those numbers can be removed from other cells in that unit.
- Hidden singles: When a number can only appear in one cell within a row, column, or box, that cell must contain that number.
Practice and Patience
Medium puzzles often require a systematic approach. Keep a pencil mark of possible numbers in each cell to track deductions. If stuck, revisit rows and columns with the most filled cells to uncover new constraints.
