Practice: XYZ-Wing Sudoku Technique

Ready to put the XYZ-Wing technique into action? This page is designed for you to practice and master XYZ-Wing patterns with real Sudoku puzzles.

Quick Reminder: What is an XYZ-Wing?

An XYZ-Wing is a pattern formed by three cells: a pivot cell with three candidates (A, B, C) and two “wings” (pincers) with two candidates each, all sharing houses with the pivot. When you spot an XYZ-Wing, you can eliminate the shared candidate from any cell that sees all three cells.

Want a full step-by-step guide? Read the XYZ-Wing Technique article

How to Practice

  1. Scan the grid for a pivot cell with three candidates and two wings with two candidates each, all sharing houses.
  2. Eliminate the shared candidate from any cell that sees all three cells.
  3. Use these eliminations to unlock more singles and progress in the puzzle.

Start Practicing

Try the puzzles below and focus on finding and applying XYZ-Wing patterns. The more you practice, the easier it will be to spot this advanced technique in any Sudoku!

Now that you know how to apply this strategy, see if you can find it on one of our Sudoku puzzles!