Lesson 6 · Beginner technique

Hidden Singles

Find the only cell in a row, column, or box that can hold a particular number.

See the logic move

Use Next to reveal each reason. On the final step, tap the highlighted cell to complete the move yourself.

Live logical proof · Hidden Single

Step 1 of 3

Focus

5 has only one legal home in row 3: row 3, column 7.

Ask about any cellTap a square on the board

Select an empty cell to see its legal candidates and why the other digits are blocked.

Why this works
  1. 1

    5 has only one legal home in row 3: row 3, column 7.

  2. 2

    Inspect R3C7 and then check its row, column, and 3x3 box.

What the board is showing

TargetThe cell currently being tested.R3C7
Relevant unitThe row, column, or box controlling this move.Row 3

Explain it simply

The answer is hidden among several notes, but that number has only one home in the group.

Step by step

  1. Choose one row, column, or box.
  2. Pick a missing number.
  3. Mark every cell blocked for that number.
  4. Fill the one legal cell left.
Quick check: Can a Hidden Single cell still contain several candidate notes?

Yes. One candidate is special because it appears nowhere else in that unit.

Turn logic into skill

Practice this technique on a live board

Practice now