Mini Sudoku
4×4 or 6×6 grids — perfect for beginners and children
What is Mini Sudoku?
Mini Sudoku uses smaller grids: the popular 4×4 version uses digits 1–4 in four 2×2 boxes, and the 6×6 version uses digits 1–6 in six 2×3 boxes. The rules are identical to standard 9×9 Sudoku but scaled down. Mini Sudoku is ideal for introducing children to Sudoku logic, for quick puzzle sessions, or as a warm-up before tackling larger grids.
At a Glance
| Constraint type | Smaller Grid |
| Typical givens | 4–8 |
| Difficulty rating | ★☆☆☆☆ 1/5 |
| Avg. solve time — Easy | 1 min |
| Avg. solve time — Medium | 2 min |
| Avg. solve time — Hard | 4 min |
| Avg. solve time — Expert | 6 min |
How to Solve Mini Sudoku
| Technique | What it does | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Scanning | With only 16 cells and digits 1–4, scan each row, column, and 2×2 box for missing digits. Most easy puzzles resolve in a single pass. | Beginner |
| Single Candidate | If only one cell in a row, column, or box can hold a particular digit, place it immediately. | Beginner |
| Box–Row/Column Interaction | Each 2×2 box shares all four cells with exactly two rows and two columns. Every box placement simultaneously restricts two full rows and two full columns. | Beginner |
Average Solve Times
Easy
1 min
Medium
2 min
Hard
4 min
Expert
6 min
Frequently Asked Questions
What digits are used?
The 4×4 version uses digits 1–4. Each row, column, and 2×2 box must contain each digit exactly once.
Is Mini Sudoku always easy?
Not always — expert Mini Sudoku puzzles can require logical deduction. The smaller grid just means solutions are found much faster.