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6×6, 8×8 & 10×10 Rules · Daily Sudoku Tips

How to Play Mini Sudoku

The rules, the goal, and the rhythm of Mini Sudoku. Start with the 6×6 LinkedIn format, then try 8×8 and 10×10 when you want a longer puzzle.

The Goal of Mini Sudoku

Same goal as classic Sudoku: fill every row, column, and region with the required digits, no repeats. The grid is just smaller, so you finish faster. A 6×6 takes a few minutes once the patterns click.

  • 6×6 boards use digits 1–6 in six 3×2 regions — the same format powering the LinkedIn trend.
  • 8×8 boards use digits 1–8 in 2×4 regions for a meatier deduction workout.
  • 10×10 boards use digits 1–10 in 2×5 regions — our toughest grid for advanced solvers.
  • Each puzzle opens with given numbers ("givens") that guide your first deductions.

Step-by-Step Mini Sudoku Method

01

Know the goal

Fill every row, column, and region with the required digits. No repeats.

02

Start with the givens

Use the numbers already on the board to spot the obvious singles first.

03

Narrow it down

Cross-check rows, columns, and regions to rule out digits until one is left.

04

Keep the streak going

Solve the daily Mini Sudoku to add to your streak. Miss a day and it resets.

05

Get unstuck

Use pencil marks for candidates and tap a hint when you stall.

Tip

After each placement, glance at the row, column, and region you just changed. New singles often appear right where you just played.

6×6 vs. 8×8 vs. 10×10 Rules at a Glance

6×6 Mini Sudoku Rules

  • Digits 1–6 in every row, column, and 3×2 region.
  • The same format as the LinkedIn Mini Sudoku.
  • Quick to solve once you get the hang of it.

8×8 Mini Sudoku Rules

  • Digits 1–8 in every row, column, and 2×4 region.
  • More cells and longer deduction chains than 6×6.
  • A natural step up once 6×6 feels easy.

10×10 Mini Sudoku Rules

  • Digits 1–10 in every row, column, and 2×5 region.
  • The biggest grid we offer. Pencil marks help here.
  • Good when you want a longer, slower puzzle.

Ready to play? Open Mini Sudoku and switch between grid sizes whenever you want.

What You Get From Playing Daily

Sharper focus

Scanning rows, columns, and regions trains you to spot details fast. Useful well beyond the puzzle.

Pattern recognition

Repeated practice with candidate pairs and singles makes the patterns easier to see in a few sessions.

A calmer break

A 6×6 Mini Sudoku takes a few minutes and pulls your attention off everything else for that span.

A small daily habit

One puzzle a day adds up. The streak counter is there if you like the nudge — ignore it if you don't.

Common Mini Sudoku Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping pencil marks early, then losing track of conflicts in 6×6 grids.
  • Forgetting to re-check the region after filling a row or column. Easy to miss in 3×2 boxes.
  • Chasing one digit across the whole board instead of clearing the most constrained row or region first.
  • Ignoring the timer entirely. It is there if you want it, but not required.

What to Read Next

Two short reads to get faster: the techniques page covers the patterns that matter, and the FAQ answers the questions people ask most.