Step-by-step Kakuro logic
How combinations unlock Kakuro puzzles
A Kakuro solver should not only reveal answers. The practical first step is to learn which digit sets can fit each clue. Once you compare an across set with a down set, intersections often force a single digit.
- Find unique combinations. Some sums have only one possible digit set, such as 4 in 2 cells = 1+3.
- Compare crossing runs. A cell must belong to one digit from its across clue and one digit from its down clue.
- Filter used digits. If a digit is already placed in a run, no other cell in that run can repeat it.
- Keep notes small. Write only likely candidates instead of every possible digit.
Fast reference examples
4 in 2 cells: 1+3 17 in 2 cells: 8+9 6 in 3 cells: 1+2+3 24 in 3 cells: 7+8+9