Sudoku technique guide

Two-String Kite Sudoku Technique

A Two-String Kite links one row and one column through a box. This guide explains the idea in plain English, when to look for it, and the common mistake to avoid.

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At a glance

Difficulty

Hard

This is where Two-String Kite normally sits in a human solving path.

Family

Single-digit chain techniques

It belongs to the single-digit chain techniques group of Sudoku logic.

Main action

Usually remove candidates

Most technique moves reduce notes first. That often reveals a simpler placement afterwards.

What is Two-String Kite?

A Two-String Kite links one row and one column through a box.

The important thing is that this is logic, not guessing. You are using the current candidates to prove that a number must either go in one place, or cannot stay in another place.

In SudoSketch, this technique is designed to work with notes and Coach highlighting, so the key cells and removal cells can be shown clearly.

How Two-String Kite works

Focus on one candidate.
Find one row strong link and one column strong link connected through a 3x3 box.
Remove the candidate from the cell that sees both far ends.

When to look for it

Look for Two-String Kite after easier moves have stopped working. First check for naked singles, hidden singles, locked candidates and simple pairs. If those do not move the puzzle forward, this technique may be worth checking.

For learning, do not try to scan for every advanced technique at once. Pick one method, understand the shape, and practise spotting that one pattern.

Common mistake

The row link and column link must connect through one box.

If you are unsure, rebuild the candidates first. Bad notes create bad logic, and Sudoku will absolutely punish you for it like a tiny spreadsheet goblin.

Two-String Kite FAQ

What is Two-String Kite in Sudoku?