How to Solve LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #143: Welcome 26

Game: LinkedIn Mini Sudoku | Question ID: 143 | Puzzle Name: Welcome 26 | Published: January 1, 2026

Welcome to our step-by-step solution guide for LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #143. This 6x6 puzzle presents an excellent opportunity to practice fundamental Sudoku solving techniques. Let's work through this puzzle systematically, starting with the cells that have the most constraints.

Understanding the Puzzle Layout

Our starting grid contains these prefilled numbers:

Row 1: 1, 2, _, _, _, _
Row 2: _, 3, _, _, _, _
Row 3: 4, _, _, _, _, 1
Row 4: 5, 1, _, _, 6, _
Row 5: _, _, _, _, 3, 6
Row 6: _, _, _, _, 1, 4

Remember: each row, column, and 2x3 box must contain the digits 1 through 6 exactly once.

Solving Strategy: Start with the Most Constrained Areas

Following proven Sudoku strategies, we begin by identifying rows, columns, and boxes with the most prefilled numbers, as these are easiest to complete.

Step 1: Analyzing Row 1

Row 1 starts with 1 and 2. Missing digits are 3, 4, 5, and 6. Let's examine column constraints:

• Column 3: Already contains 4. Row 1, Column 3 cannot be 4.
• Column 4: No conflicts yet
• Column 5: Already contains 6 and 3. Row 1, Column 5 must avoid these.
• Column 6: Already contains 1 and 6. Row 1, Column 6 must avoid these.

By checking each 2x3 box and applying the elimination process, we determine the remaining values for Row 1.

Step 2: Focus on Row 4 (Highly Constrained)

Row 4 has four prefilled numbers: 5, 1, 6, and one empty cell. This row is nearly complete, making it ideal to solve next. With only two missing digits, we can quickly identify them through the process of elimination across the row.

Step 3: Tackle the Bottom-Right 2x3 Box

The bottom-right box (rows 5-6, columns 5-6) contains three prefilled numbers: 3, 6, 1, and 4. This high density of clues makes it easier to deduce the remaining values.

Step 4: Use Naked Singles

A naked single occurs when only one possible number can fit in a cell based on its row, column, and box constraints. As we fill in more cells, naked singles become easier to identify.

For example, if a cell's row is missing only one digit, and that digit isn't excluded by column or box constraints, it's a naked single.

Step 5: Apply Pencil Marks (Mental Notes)

For remaining cells, jot down potential candidates. As you fill in nearby cells, eliminate candidates that conflict with your entries. This systematic approach prevents errors and builds momentum toward the solution.

Step 6: Complete Column 6

Column 6 starts with 1 and 6. With strategic placement of values from completed rows and boxes, determine the remaining three digits for this column.

Step 7: Work Through Central Boxes

The center boxes (rows 3-4, columns 3-4 and rows 5-6, columns 3-4) require careful coordination between row and column constraints. Use the intersection method: identify which digits can appear in specific rows and columns, then narrow down box placement.

Final Solving Tips

• Eliminate systematically: Sudoku is about removing impossible answers, not just finding correct ones.
• Focus on one number at a time: Track where a specific digit (like 3) can appear throughout the puzzle.
• Check your work: Before moving forward, verify that each completed row, column, and box contains 1-6 exactly once.
• Practice builds speed: Regular solving improves pattern recognition and reduces solving time.

By following these methodical steps and leveraging constraint-based elimination, you'll solve LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #143 efficiently. Continue practicing with daily puzzles to master advanced techniques like pointing pairs and box/line reduction.

Ready to verify your solution? Check the solution page to see if your puzzle matches perfectly!