Step-by-Step Solution of LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #106 (Square One) – November 25, 2025

Welcome to the detailed walkthrough for LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #106, also known as Square One, published on November 25, 2025. This 6x6 number puzzle requires placing digits 1 through 6 so that each row, column, and 2x3 section contains all these digits exactly once, starting from the clues given.

Initial Setup
Our puzzle grid has a few cells prefilled mostly in the middle rows, creating a backbone of values to work with. We tackle empty cells step-by-step by deducing which numbers can logically fit based on Sudoku rules.

Step 1: Analyze Rows with Clues

Rows 2 through 5 have several digits placed, especially concentrated in the middle columns.

• Focus on Row 2: The numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 appear in columns 2 to 5. The missing digits are 5 and 6, which must populate the first and last columns.
• Row 3: Includes 2, 4, 1, and 3. The empty cells are on the edges, so these must be 5 and 6 as well.
• Row 4 and 5: Similarly, analyze which numbers are present and which are missing, noting that each 2x3 box must contain unique digits.

Step 2: Work By Columns and Boxes

Checking column-wise, some numbers are already placed in middle segments. Use exclusion to scan for numbers missing in each column and box:

• In the first column, many entries are missing. Since rows 2-5 have gaps, check which numbers have not appeared yet in these columns.
• Each 2x3 box dictates additional rules. For example, the first box (top-left 2x3) must have all digits 1-6, but only a few are placed initially.

Step 3: Applying Logical Deductions

Using Single Possibility: At multiple points, a cell will have only one possible number fitting from the set {1-6} once you exclude numbers present in the same row, column, and box.

Example: In the top-left corner, since the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 don't appear in that box yet, and numbers 5 and 6 can be eliminated due to other placements, you can place a 3 or 4 by exclusion.

Step 4: Fill Empty Edge Cells in Rows 1 and 6

These rows have no initial clues but become easier to solve as you finish the middle rows. Since the other rows already contain some numbers, you can exclude those from these edge rows.

• Use column constraints: if a number appears in a column, eliminate it from other cells in that column.
• Consider the 2x3 boxes and ensure no duplicates.

Step 5: Iteratively Narrow Down Candidates

Continue to use exclusion and pencil marks (mentally or on paper) for possible digits in empty cells. With each insertion, the available options for others reduce until only one option remains.

Step 6: Confirming Each Digit Placement

At every step, validate newly-placed digits against all rows, columns, and boxes ensuring no duplication. This cross-checking is crucial before placing a number definitively.

// Example reasoning for a middle cell placement
Row 3, Column 1:
- Numbers in Row 3: 2,4,1,3
- Numbers in Column 1 (partial): check filled cells
- Numbers in the 2x3 box including this cell: check what’s placed
- Remaining number that fits uniquely is 6, so place 6 here.

Following this methodical logic leads to solving all the empty cells until the grid is fully completed.

By focusing on one empty cell at a time and applying classic Sudoku strategies—such as checking missing digits in rows, columns, and boxes, using exclusion, and validating each placement—you will successfully solve this 6x6 Sudoku challenge named Square One.

For the detailed solution of this puzzle and to verify your final arrangement, please refer to the LinkedIn Mini Sudoku #106 solution page.