X-Wing
AdvancedUsed at: Expert
A candidate forms a rectangular pattern across two rows and two columns. Eliminations can be made in other rows and columns.
Board Example
Blue = focused cell, Yellow = candidates, Red = elimination target
X-Wing — Explained
X-Wing is a pattern where a candidate appears in exactly two rows and two columns, forming a rectangle. The digit can be eliminated from other cells in those columns.
When to Use
Advanced to expert puzzles where basic techniques no longer work. Mid to late game.
Common Mistakes
Not checking that each row has exactly TWO candidates. Three or more is not a valid X-Wing.
Tips
Scan digit by digit. Look for a digit in exactly two rows, aligned in the same two columns.
X-Wing Steps
Find a digit in 2 rows
Find a digit in exactly two rows, with both in the same two columns.
Confirm rectangle
Verify the 2×2 rectangular pattern.
Eliminate in columns
Eliminate the digit from those two columns in other rows.