How to Solve LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #154 (8th Notes)

Game: LinkedIn Mini Sudoku | Puzzle ID: 154 | Difficulty: 8th Notes

6x6 Sudoku puzzles are excellent brain teasers that require logical thinking and systematic approaches. In this guide, we'll walk through LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #154 step-by-step, demonstrating how to use elimination techniques and constraint-based solving to reach the solution.

Understanding the Puzzle

Your starting grid has several pre-filled numbers strategically placed. Each row, column, and 2×3 block must contain the digits 1 through 6 exactly once. Let's identify what we know:

• Row 1: Contains 6 and 1
• Row 2: Contains 1, 3, and 2
• Row 3: Contains 6 and 3
• Row 4: Contains 5, 1, and 4
• Row 5: Contains 1, 4, 3, and 5
• Row 6: Contains 2 and 3

Solving Strategy: Focus on Constrained Areas

The most effective approach to 6x6 Sudoku is to start with the most constrained regions—those with the most pre-filled numbers. These areas have fewer possibilities, making them easier to solve and unlocking adjacent cells.

Step 1: Analyze Row 5 (Most Constrained)

Row 5 currently has: 1, 4, 3, and 5 in various positions. It's missing only two numbers: 2 and 6.

• Position (5,3) and one other position need to be filled with 2 and 6
• By checking the columns and 2×3 blocks that contain these empty cells, we can determine which number belongs where
• Column 3 analysis and block constraints will pinpoint the exact placement

Step 2: Use Elimination on Overlapping Constraints

For each empty cell, check three constraints simultaneously:

• What numbers are already in that row?
• What numbers are already in that column?
• What numbers are already in that 2×3 block?

The remaining number(s) are your candidates. If only one candidate remains, you've found a naked single—a cell with only one possible answer.

Step 3: Tackle Row 6 Systematically

Row 6 has 2 and 3 filled in. Work through each empty cell:

• Check which numbers 1, 4, 5, and 6 can fit based on existing row, column, and block constraints
• Look for cells where only one number is possible
• Fill in these definite placements first

Step 4: Work Through Rows 1-4 Using Cascade Effect

As you fill in cells, previously constrained areas become less constrained, making adjacent cells easier to solve. This creates a cascade effect:

• Row 1 has limited pre-filled numbers, so focus on its 2×3 blocks first
• Each block has 6 cells; identify which numbers are missing
• Cross-reference with row and column constraints to place numbers
• When a block is nearly complete, the remaining cells become obvious

Key Solving Techniques Applied

Cross-Hatching: For any given number, find all instances already placed. Then, for 2×3 blocks missing that number, use elimination to determine where it must go. Repeat this process for all numbers 1-6.

Block Analysis: When a 2×3 block has four or five numbers filled, the remaining cell(s) have very limited options. Complete these blocks before moving to sparser areas.

Column and Row Scanning: Regularly scan each column and row for numbers that have only one possible placement remaining.

Working Through the Middle Rows

Rows 2-4 require careful constraint tracking. For example:

• If a number already appears in two of the three 2×3 blocks in a row, it must go in the remaining block
• Use this to eliminate impossible candidates quickly
• Combine with column constraints to pinpoint exact positions

Final Cells and Verification

As you approach completion, remaining empty cells have extremely limited candidates. Usually, only one or two numbers are possible. The final few cells should fill in almost automatically based on what's left.

Once complete, verify by checking:

• Each row contains 1-6 exactly once
• Each column contains 1-6 exactly once
• Each 2×3 block contains 1-6 exactly once

Practice Tips for Future LinkedIn Mini Sudoku Puzzles

• Always start by identifying your most constrained regions
• Use pencil marks to track candidates in empty cells
• Look for naked singles—these solve instantly
• Complete one 2×3 block fully before moving to adjacent areas
• Work methodically rather than randomly guessing

With these techniques, you'll solve LinkedIn Mini Sudoku puzzles consistently and efficiently. The key is systematic constraint-based reasoning rather than trial and error.