Outside Sudoku Puzzles

About Outside Sudoku

Outside Sudoku is a different version of the regular Sudoku puzzle. In this version, the clues (given numbers) are not inside the grid. Instead, they are placed outside the grid. These outside clues help you figure out the numbers in the rows and columns, making the puzzle more fun and challenging.

Rules / How to Play

• Grid Size: he grid is typically 9x9, divided into 9 smaller 3x3 sub grids.
• Unique Numbers: You must fill the 9x9 grid with digits from 1 to 9, ensuring that each row, column, and 3x3 subgrid (or "box") contains all digits from 1 to 9 without repetition.
• Outside Clues: Numbers placed outside the grid indicate the first digit(s) in the corresponding row or column when reading from the direction of the clue. For example, a number "5" placed to the left of a row implies that the first cell in that row (from the left) contains the number 5.
• No Inside Clues: Some Outside Sudoku puzzles may completely omit clues inside the grid, relying solely on the outside clues. However, other variations might include both internal and external clues.

Solving Tips and Techniques:

To solve an Outside Sudoku puzzle, you apply logical reasoning combined with the outside clues.

• Focus on the Clues: Start by looking closely at the numbers outside the grid. These numbers are your main clues. Focus on rows or columns with more than one clue, as they often help you figure things out faster. Example: If a "3" is outside a row, you can instantly place a "3" in the first cell of that row. This works similarly for columns with outside clues.
• First Position Conclusion: Once a number is placed based on the outside clue, it impacts the placement of other numbers in that row, column, and box. Example: If "5" is placed in the first cell of a row, no other "5" can appear in that row, column, or box.
• Elimination: Use the clues to eliminate possibilities within the first three cells of a row or column. For example, if the clues for a row are 1, 2, and 3, you know that these digits must occupy the first three cells, and no other digits can be in those positions.
• Intersection: Look for where rows and columns cross, using the clues. If a number is a clue for both a row and a column, it must go in the cell where they meet.
• Pencil Marks: Use pencil marks to note down potential candidates for cells. This can help you visualize possibilities and identify patterns.

Outside Sudoku adds a fun twist to the regular Sudoku puzzle, giving a new challenge for fans of the game. By learning the rules and using the right solving methods, you can master these interesting puzzles and improve your Sudoku skills.