I have tried using several different methods for solving. I first created three different grid sets. Horizontal, Vertical and box using Excel.
Then I combined a few until I got to what I find to be a really useful sovling tool.
Remember that Sudoku is a process of elimination. So here is my grid: http://www.starjim.com/Sudoku%20Horiz3.xls BTW you will need Excel to open this link.
What I do is print off a sheet, then I fill in the given numbers for the puzzle. I then begin the process of eliminating the given numbers from each set of 1 to 9s throughout the worksheet. I completely cross out the number clue sets whenever I fill in a box in the puzzle.
This also give me a complete visual of the possible combinations showing what numbers are always available for each box in the puzzle. Try it out and let me know how it works for you.
I find that using a heavy marker to completely cross out used numbers works best and I sometimes will use a red pen to write in the numbers of the solved numbers. Helps me not to look at so much black ink.
Jim
