How to Solve LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #165 'Grasp It'

LinkedIn Mini Sudoku challenges players with a compact 6x6 grid where logic and deduction are key. In today's puzzle 'Grasp It' (Question #165), we'll work through the solution step-by-step, revealing how strategic thinking leads to the complete answer.

Understanding the Puzzle Layout

The 6x6 Sudoku grid contains six 2x3 boxes. Your goal is to fill each row, column, and 2x3 box with the numbers 1 through 6, with each digit appearing exactly once. The puzzle provides several clues—prefilled numbers that guide your solution.

Starting with the Given Clues

Let's map out what we know:

• Row 1: Has 1 and 3 in the middle cells
• Row 2: Has 4 and 2 in the middle cells
• Row 3: Has 5, 3 in specific positions
• Row 4: Starts with 6 and ends with 4
• Row 5: Has 3 and 5 placed
• Row 6: Completely empty—this will be solved last

Solving Step-by-Step

Step 1: Identify Naked Singles

Look for cells where only one number can fit. Start by examining rows, columns, and 2x3 boxes with the most given numbers. These "naked singles" are the easiest to solve.

In the top-left 2x3 box, we have 1, 4, 3, and 2. The missing numbers are 5 and 6. By checking which rows and columns already contain these numbers, you can determine their placement.

Step 2: Focus on the Top-Right Box

The top-right 2x3 box contains 3, 2 (row 1) and 2 (row 2). Work through which numbers are missing and where they must go based on the constraints of their rows and columns.

Step 3: Build Momentum in the Middle Rows

Row 3 has numbers at specific positions. Use column elimination—if a number already appears in a column, it cannot appear again in that column. This significantly narrows down possibilities.

Row 4 provides anchors at the start (6) and end (4). These fixed points help determine what goes in the middle cells by elimination.

Step 4: Use Box Elimination Strategy

Once you've filled cells in the top rows, the middle and bottom 2x3 boxes become easier to complete. Each box must contain 1-6, so as you fill surrounding cells, options narrow naturally.

Step 5: Complete Row 5

With 3 and 5 already placed, determine the remaining four numbers (1, 2, 4, 6) by checking which are missing in each relevant column and box.

Step 6: Solve Row 6—The Final Row

The last row has no clues, but by this point, most columns and boxes are nearly complete. Each cell in row 6 is constrained by what's already filled above it, making this row straightforward to complete through elimination.

Key Strategy Reminders

• Process of elimination: Remove impossible candidates by checking rows, columns, and boxes
• Focus on constrained units: Start with 2x3 boxes or rows/columns that have the most numbers already filled
• Use pencil marks: Write candidate numbers in cells to visualize possibilities

Conclusion

LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #165 'Grasp It' demonstrates how systematic logic and careful elimination solve any 6x6 puzzle. By working methodically through constrained boxes and rows, you'll build confidence in tackling even harder Sudoku challenges. Ready to verify your solution? Check the answer guide linked below.