How to Solve LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #159 'Reined In'

Game: LinkedIn Mini Sudoku | Puzzle ID: 159 | Name: Reined In

This 6x6 Sudoku puzzle challenges you to fill in blank cells so that each row, column, and 2×3 box contains the digits 1 through 6 exactly once. With only 9 given clues, strategic thinking is essential. Let's break down how to solve this puzzle step by step.

Understanding the Grid Layout

Before we begin, let's visualize what we're working with. The puzzle has cells already filled in:

• Row 2: 4, 3, 1, 2 (missing cells 1 and 6)
• Row 3: 6 (missing most numbers)
• Row 4: 5 (missing most numbers)
• Row 5: 1, 6, 4, 3 (missing cells 2 and 5)

Strategy 1: Start with Rows Nearly Complete

The most efficient approach is to focus on rows, columns, and boxes with the most given numbers. Row 2 and Row 5 are particularly helpful starting points since they already contain four of the six required digits.

Solving Row 2

Row 2 contains: 4, 3, 1, 2. Missing digits are 5 and 6. By checking which columns and boxes these numbers can occupy, we can determine their exact positions. This reduces possibilities significantly for the entire grid.

Solving Row 5

Row 5 contains: 1, 6, 4, 3. Missing digits are 2 and 5. Apply the same logic—examine column constraints and 2×3 box requirements to place these numbers.

Strategy 2: Use Elimination on Columns

Once you've placed numbers in nearly-complete rows, examine the columns. If a column already has most digits, the missing ones become easier to identify. Use the process of elimination: if a number must appear in a column and only one empty cell remains possible, that's your answer.

Strategy 3: Leverage 2×3 Box Constraints

Remember that every 2×3 rectangular box must contain digits 1-6. If a box has several filled cells, you can quickly determine what numbers are missing and where they can go. This is particularly powerful when combined with row and column logic.

Example Box Analysis

Look at boxes that contain Row 2's filled cells. These boxes now have 4 of 6 numbers. Identify which two digits are missing, then check row and column constraints to place them precisely.

Strategy 4: Identify Naked Singles

A naked single is a cell where only one possible digit can go based on existing row, column, and box constraints. As you fill in more cells, these become increasingly common. When you identify a naked single, it's a guaranteed placement.

Building Your Solution

Start by filling in the numbers for Row 2 and Row 5, since these rows need only two additional digits each. This immediately constrains several columns and boxes, making subsequent cells easier to solve.

Next, focus on columns that now have multiple filled cells. Each additional number you place reduces the possibilities for empty cells, creating a cascading effect that simplifies the puzzle.

Final Tips for Solving 6×6 Sudoku

• Use pencil marks in empty cells to track possible candidates
• Cross out candidates as you place numbers in related rows, columns, and boxes
• Work systematically rather than randomly guessing
• When stuck, identify which cells have the fewest possibilities and focus there

With patience and logical deduction, you'll complete LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #159 'Reined In'. These puzzles are excellent brain training exercises that improve logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.