How to Play Kakuro

THE PLAYBOOK · LINCANGCHU

How to play Kakuro

Read the aim of Kakuro, then make your first move. Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Use the example below to understand a decision. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.

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.

Try a deliberate move

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Your goal

Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Check the rules when you are unsure.

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.

Controls

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. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

A useful example

A row total 18 with fixed values 2, 4 and 7 requires 5 in the remaining cell. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Keep the controls nearby.

Watch out for this

Repeated digits in a run are forbidden even when the sum matches. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions