Sudoku 7390 Medium: Puzzle Overview
The Guardian published Sudoku puzzle number 7390 on July 22, 2026, rated as medium difficulty. This classic 9x9 grid requires logical deduction to fill all cells with numbers 1 through 9 without repetition in rows, columns, or 3x3 boxes.
Solving Strategy for Medium Level
Medium sudokus often involve techniques like hidden singles, naked pairs, and pointing pairs. Start by identifying cells with only one possible candidate. For this puzzle, initial scanning reveals several such placements. For example, in the top-left box, the number 5 can only go in one cell after considering row and column constraints.
Key Steps and Hints
According to the puzzle's solution path, a critical step involves the number 3 in the central box. Using the elimination method, the 3 must be placed in the middle row of that box. Another important deduction uses a pointing pair of 7s in the bottom row, which restricts possibilities in the adjacent box.
The puzzle includes a total of 81 cells. Approximately 30 cells are given as clues, typical for medium difficulty. The solution requires around 20-30 minutes for an experienced solver.
Final Solution Check
After completing the grid, verify that each row, column, and 3x3 box contains all digits 1-9 exactly once. Common mistakes include duplicate numbers in a row or box. Double-check the placement of 4s and 8s, which often cause errors in this puzzle.
