Kakuro

THE PLAYBOOK · FQ12349

Getting started with Kakuro

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Kakuro. Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Look at what changes after your first action. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Practise sums on twelve small, unblocked 4×4 grids. These teaching boards use whole-row and whole-column totals rather than the blocked runs of classic Kakuro.

One thing to notice as you play

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.

The objective of a round

Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.

Step by step

1. Compare a row total with its fixed entries.
2. Use the column total for the same blank.
3. Enter digits 1–9.
4. Check puzzle verifies totals and non-repetition.

Using the playing area

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

Try this example

A row total 18 with fixed values 2, 4 and 7 requires 5 in the remaining cell. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Consider the next action carefully.

Notice this detail

Repeated digits in a run are forbidden even when the sum matches. Compare the situation with the worked example. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Questions about this game