LEVEL 5

Hidden Pair

Two digits occur in only the same two cells of a house.

How to find it

  1. Count where each missing digit can appear.
  2. Find two digits restricted to the same two cells.
  3. Remove all other candidates from those cells.

Candidate-map demonstration

The violet cells mark the pattern and the gold cell marks the resulting placement or elimination. Treat this compact map as orientation; use the verified full puzzle below to practise the actual deduction.

Common mistakes

  • Using cells that do not share the required row, column, box or peer relationship.
  • Removing a candidate before confirming every occurrence in the pattern.
  • Confusing a possible pattern with a completed logical proof.

VERIFIED PRACTICE

Hidden Pair training

Loading a mathematically verified puzzle state…

Apply this technique in a real puzzle