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Swordfish Sudoku Technique | Master Sudoku: From Beginner to Expert - Class 1 PDF Download

Swordfish

Swordfish is an "X-Wing" on steroids.

  • Just as the X-Wing involves two candidates in two columns or rows, the Swordfish involves three candidates in three columns or rows.
  • These guys are very hard to find. Even if you know it's there, it can take some time to find.
  • I must confess — this is probably my least favorite technique. It is not super complex to understand — it's just very hard to spot one.

But, in the interest of being complete, I will cover it. Take a look at this example:

Swordfish Sudoku Technique | Master Sudoku: From Beginner to Expert - Class 1

The puzzle above has a Swordfish on the number 5. There are three rows where all the possible 5s appear in the same three columns.
Here is the same puzzle, but with some markings added for illustration:

Swordfish Sudoku Technique | Master Sudoku: From Beginner to Expert - Class 1

As you can see, the three rows marked by the blue lines all have their possible locations for a 5 confined to the same three columns (marked by the red lines).
Let me say that a different way: The blue lines only have 5s where the red lines cross.

Why is this important? 

  • The result is each red line's 5 is going to be where a blue line crosses it. We don't know which blue line; we just know it's at a blue line.
  • Net result: any "5" along a red line that's not in a blue line can be removed (all the 5s in the pink cells can be erased).
  • Apparently, some examples of this technique create a pattern that resembles the actual fish it's named after.
  • My own personal experience is that it is not common to find that you need this technique to solve a puzzle. But who knows — it may save you one day!
The document Swordfish Sudoku Technique | Master Sudoku: From Beginner to Expert - Class 1 is a part of the Class 1 Course Master Sudoku: From Beginner to Expert.
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FAQs on Swordfish Sudoku Technique - Master Sudoku: From Beginner to Expert - Class 1

1. What is the Swordfish technique in Sudoku?
Ans. The Swordfish technique is an advanced solving method used in Sudoku puzzles to eliminate candidates from cells. It involves identifying a pattern formed by three rows and three columns, where a specific number can only appear in certain cells. By recognizing this pattern, a solver can eliminate that number as a candidate from other cells in those columns, helping to narrow down possibilities.
2. How do I recognize a Swordfish pattern in Sudoku?
Ans. To recognize a Swordfish pattern, look for three rows that each contain a particular candidate in exactly two or three cells. Then, check if these candidate cells align with three columns. If you can find this alignment where the candidate appears only in those specific cells across the rows and columns, you have identified a Swordfish pattern.
3. When should I use the Swordfish technique while solving Sudoku?
Ans. The Swordfish technique should be used when you have exhausted simpler strategies like scanning, naked pairs, or locked candidates, and you're still unable to make progress. It is particularly useful in harder puzzles where candidates are numerous and eliminating them can significantly simplify the grid.
4. Are there any prerequisites to using the Swordfish technique?
Ans. Yes, before using the Swordfish technique, you should be comfortable with basic Sudoku strategies, including understanding how to identify and eliminate candidates, as well as being familiar with techniques like X-Wing and other advanced solving methods. This foundation will help you effectively apply the Swordfish technique.
5. Can the Swordfish technique be applied to all Sudoku puzzles?
Ans. While the Swordfish technique can be applied to many Sudoku puzzles, especially those of medium to hard difficulty, it may not be necessary or applicable in every puzzle. In some easier puzzles, simpler techniques will suffice, and the Swordfish may not present itself as a viable pattern.
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