LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #87 (String) - Step-by-Step Solution Guide for November 6, 2025

Welcome to a detailed walkthrough of solving the LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #87, published on November 6, 2025. This 6x6 Sudoku puzzle challenges you to fill the grid so that each row, column, and each 2x3 box contains all digits from 1 to 6 exactly once. We will analyze the puzzle from the given clues and use logical deduction to solve each empty cell systematically, ensuring a deeper understanding of the solving process beyond just the final solution.

Initial Puzzle Setup: The grid is divided into six rows and six columns with six 2x3 boxes. Some cells are prefilled with numbers:

• Row 1 shows digits 3 and 2 in the fourth and fifth cells respectively.
• Row 2 has a 4 in the third cell and a 1 at the sixth cell.
• Row 3 includes a 5 in the third cell.
• Row 4 has a 6 in the fourth cell.
• Row 5 features a 5 in the first cell and a 1 in the fourth cell.
• Row 6 contains a 3 and 2 in the second and third cells respectively.

Step 1: Filling Based on Rows and Columns Missing Digits

First, we analyze rows and columns where only one digit is missing:

• Row 1 has empty cells around the known 3 and 2; determine which digits 1,4,5,6 can fit by excluding those in the same columns and box.
• Column 6 already contains digit 1 in row 2, reducing possibilities for the column’s empty cells.

Step 2: Utilize 2x3 Box Constraints

Each 2x3 box must contain all digits 1 through 6. For example, observe the first 2x3 box covering rows 1-2 and columns 1-3:

• Known digits here are 4 (row 2, col 3).
• Missing digits in this box are 1, 2, 3, 5, 6.
• Using elimination from rows and columns overlapping this box helps pinpoint which missing digits must go into each empty cell.

Step 3: Logical Deduction for Specific Cells

With the intersections of row, column, and box constraints, apply the following reasoning:

• Row 5, Column 2 — Cannot be 1 (exists in row 5), 3 or 2 (check columns), so must be 4 or 6. Check the box and column to narrow possibilities.
• Row 3, Column 4 — Missing number candidates can be tested because digits in the surrounding row, column, and 2x3 box limit the options.
• Continue this cell-by-cell identification until only one candidate remains per cell.

Step 4: Cross-Hatching Technique (Narrowing Candidates)

Systematically scan rows and columns for unique placement opportunities:

• For each digit 1 to 6, check which empty cells within a box can contain it by excluding unavailable positions.
• For instance, if digit 6 can only appear in one cell in a box after elimination, fill it there immediately.

Step 5: Iterative Refinement

Each placement reduces possibilities in other cells. After filling a cell:

• Revisit rows, columns, and boxes impacted by the new digit.
• Remove that digit from possible candidates in those intersecting zones.
• This chain reaction progressively fills the puzzle.

Step 6: Special Patterns and Techniques

In more challenging steps, identify cells featuring only two candidates to apply simple forcing chains:

• Test hypothetical placements and trace consequences to confirm correct digits.
• Look for naked singles where only one candidate digit fits in a cell.

Final Remarks

This 6x6 Sudoku puzzle’s resolution hinges on systematically applying the basic Sudoku rules combined with strategic cross-checking between rows, columns, and boxes. By focusing on eliminating impossible digits and narrowing down cells to single possibilities, you logically advance towards the solution without guessing.

Keep practicing these logical deduction strategies, and you will become proficient at tackling similar LinkedIn Mini Sudoku puzzles like question ID 87 titled String. The approach outlined here optimizes the solving flow specific to this puzzle from November 6, 2025.

// Example logical deduction snippet for one cell
// Consider row 1, column 1:
// Possible digits: 1, 4, 5, 6
// Exclude digits found in same row, column, and box
// If only digit 6 fits after elimination, assign 6 to this cell