Master KenKen, the arithmetic logic puzzle that combines Sudoku rules with math operations. Each cage must equal the target number using the specified operation.
📑Table of Contents
How to Get Started
UNDERSTANDING THE RULES (10 minutes)
Grid structure: Like Sudoku, each row and column contains each number once (1-6 for 6x6)
Cages: Bold outlined groups with target number and operation (+, -, x, ÷)
Goal: Fill grid so cages equal targets and rows/columns have no repeats
Example: '12x' in 2 cells could be 3x4, 4x3, 2x6, or 6x2
BASIC STRATEGIES (15 minutes)
Single-cell cages: Easiest, directly tell you the number
Division/subtraction: Limited options (6÷ in 2 cells is only 6÷3 or 6÷2)
Factoring: '24x in 3' could be 2x3x4, 2x4x3, 3x4x2, etc.
Process of elimination: Use Sudoku logic for row/column constraints
PRACTICE RESOURCES (5 minutes)
Free puzzles: KenKen.com (daily puzzles), KenKen app, NYTimes games section
Start with 4x4: Simpler math, fewer cells, builds confidence
Daily practice: One puzzle a day improves mental math and logic
ADVANCED TECHNIQUES
Combination memorization: Know factors of common products (24, 36, 48)
Constraint intersection: Where cages meet, use both constraints
Trial and error: Sometimes test one number, see if it creates contradiction
Larger grids: Progress to 9x9 for serious challenge
Ready to Get Started?
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