Easy Sudoku

What makes these puzzles easy

An easy puzzle here can be solved from start to finish using only naked singles: at every point there is at least one square where only one digit fits. Look along a square's row, its column and its box; cross off every digit you see; if one digit is left, write it in.

Easy puzzles also start with more digits (38 here), so there is always somewhere to begin.

Tips for your first games

• Start with the busiest areas. Rows, columns and boxes that already hold six or seven digits leave the fewest choices.
• Scan one digit at a time. Pick a digit, say 5, and look for boxes where it is still missing. Often the other 5s rule out all but one square.
• Use notes when stuck. Turn on Notes and pencil in what each square could be. The answer often jumps out.
• Hints are fine. A hint fills one square. Use it, then ask yourself why that digit had to go there.

Once easy feels quick, try medium sudoku, which brings in hidden singles.