X-Wing Explained Simply
X-Wing is the first truly "advanced" technique most solvers encounter. It sounds intimidating, but the concept is simple: find a rectangular pattern formed by 2 rows and 2 columns.
The X-Wing Concept
- 1.Focus on a specific number (e.g., 5)
- 2.Find 2 rows where that number can only go in the same 2 columns
- 3.These 4 points form a rectangle (the X-Wing)
- 4.In those 2 columns, eliminate the number from all other rows
Visualizing the Pattern
Imagine 2 horizontal lines (rows) and 2 vertical lines (columns) crossing to form a rectangle or "well frame." Once you see this shape in your candidate layout, you have found an X-Wing.
Spotting Tips
1. Focus on numbers one at a time and visualize "possible positions"
2. Look for rows where a number has only 2 possible cells
3. Find 2 rows where the possible columns align
4. Once found, eliminate that number from those columns in other rows