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Hidden Quad

When four numbers can only fit in the same four cells.

Explanation

In one row, column, or box, if four digits can appear only inside the same four cells, those cells must contain the quad. Other candidates in those cells can be removed.

Hidden Quad example Sudoku board 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4
An example board where Hidden Quad applies

Practice tip

Track candidate positions by digit. Hidden quads are easier to confirm when notes are already filled.

Example steps

  1. Choose one unit and mark the possible cells for each digit.
  2. Find four digits whose possible cells collapse to four positions.
  3. Keep the quad digits there and remove all other notes in those cells.

Try this technique on a real puzzle.

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