Solving LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #102: Spread Out

Game: LinkedIn Mini Sudoku | Question ID: 102 | Difficulty: Spread Out | Published: November 21, 2025

This LinkedIn Mini Sudoku puzzle challenges you with a 6x6 grid divided into six 2x3 regions. With only five initial clues strategically placed, the "Spread Out" theme requires careful logical deduction and systematic elimination. Let's walk through how to crack this puzzle step by step.

Understanding the Starting Position

The puzzle begins with five numbers already placed:

• Row 1: 2 in position 1, 5 in position 5
• Row 2: 1 in position 3
• Row 3: 2 in position 5
• Row 4: 4 in position 2
• Row 5: 3 in position 4
• Row 6: 3 in position 2, 4 in position 6

These scattered clues require you to use elimination and logical reasoning to fill the remaining 31 cells.

Strategic Solving Approach

Step 1: Identify Cells with Limited Possibilities

Start by examining areas where numbers are most constrained. Look at Row 1, which already has 2 and 5. This row needs 1, 3, 4, and 6. By checking which numbers can appear in the top-left and top-right 2x3 regions, you can narrow down possibilities significantly.

For example, Row 1, Column 2 sits in the top-left region. This region already contains the number 1 (from Row 2, Column 3). This immediately eliminates 1 as a possibility for this cell.

Step 2: Use Column and Region Constraints

Column analysis is crucial. Column 2 contains 4 (Row 4) and 3 (Row 6). This means Column 2 still needs 1, 2, 5, and 6. Cross-referencing with row requirements helps determine exact placements.

For instance, Row 1 Column 2 cannot be 1 (region constraint), cannot be 4 or 3 (already in column), and cannot be 2 or 5 (already in row). This leaves only 6 as the possible value.

Step 3: Work Through Rows Systematically

Once you place Row 1 Column 2 as 6, Row 1 becomes easier to complete. The remaining cells in Row 1 can be filled using systematic elimination against existing numbers in their respective columns and regions.

Row 1 Column 3 cannot contain numbers already in Column 3 or the top-left region. Row 1 Column 4 cannot contain numbers already in Column 4 or the top-right region. This process continues until the row is complete.

Step 4: Focus on Heavily Constrained Regions

The middle and bottom regions with pre-filled numbers become anchor points. For the middle-left region (Rows 3-4, Columns 1-2), you have the number 4 in Row 4, Column 2. Work outward from these anchors.

Column 1 analysis: It already has 2 (Row 1). Moving down, you can determine which numbers belong in Rows 3, 4, 5, and 6 of Column 1 by eliminating what's forbidden by other constraints.

Step 5: Apply Naked Singles and Hidden Singles

A "naked single" occurs when only one number can fit in a cell. For example, if a cell in Row 5 needs a number that's not in Row 5, Column 4 (which has 3), or its region, and only one number remains after all eliminations, place it immediately.

Hidden singles are numbers that can only go in one place within a row, column, or region. Row 6 has 3 and 4 already. Check where 1, 2, 5, and 6 must go by examining which columns and regions still need them.

Step 6: Complete Through Logical Cascade

As you fill more cells, the puzzle becomes progressively easier. Each placement eliminates possibilities for intersecting rows, columns, and regions. Eventually, many cells have only one logical option remaining.

For the bottom-right region (Rows 5-6, Columns 5-6), the number 4 in Row 6 Column 6 constrains what can appear nearby. The number 3 in Row 5 Column 4 influences nearby cells. These constraints cascade through the puzzle.

Key Techniques for This Puzzle

Region Focus: Since the puzzle has limited initial clues, pay special attention to the six 2x3 regions. Each region must contain 1-6, making it a powerful constraint tool.

Column and Row Elimination: Methodically track which numbers are already used in each column and row. This is your primary tool for narrowing possibilities.

Pencil Marking: Write small candidate numbers in empty cells. As you make deductions, erase eliminated candidates. This visual approach prevents logical errors.

Work Strategically: Don't fill cells randomly. Focus first on rows, columns, or regions that already have the most numbers—these constrain possibilities the most.

Mastering the "Spread Out" Theme

The puzzle title "Spread Out" refers to how the initial clues are distributed across the grid with maximum spacing. This design forces solvers to use logical deduction rather than relying on dense clue clusters. It's an excellent exercise in Sudoku fundamentals.

By working through each region, applying elimination rules consistently, and recognizing when cells have only one possible value, you can solve even sparsely populated puzzles like this one. The "Spread Out" design ultimately rewards systematic thinking and careful constraint analysis.

Ready to Solve?

Now that you understand the solving strategy, try working through the puzzle yourself using these techniques. Start with areas of maximum constraint, use elimination systematically, and watch as the logical cascade completes the grid. Check the solution to verify your work and improve your LinkedIn Mini Sudoku skills.