Beginner guide
How to Play Nonograms
A nonogram is a picture logic puzzle. You fill cells in a grid by reading the number clues on each row and column, then cross-checking those clues until the hidden image appears.
Read each clue in order
A clue of 3 means three filled cells together. A clue of 2 1 means two filled cells, at least one blank, then one filled cell later in the line.
Find forced cells first
If a clue can only fit one way, fill it. If every possible placement overlaps on the same cells, those overlap cells are safe to fill.
Mark blanks with purpose
Once a clue group is complete, mark the surrounding cells blank. These marks prevent accidental overfills and make the next deduction easier.
Cross-check after every move
A certain fill in one row creates new information in its column. Alternate between directions instead of finishing one side in isolation.
Solving Checklist
- Use a five-by-five or six-by-six board while learning the rules.
- Never add cells to a completed group unless another clue requires it.
- Treat blank marks as real progress, not just cleanup.
- When stuck, scan for the longest clue in each direction.
Questions
- What are the numbers outside the grid?
- They are clues. Each number gives the length of a filled run in that row or column, and the runs appear in the listed order.
- What does an X mark mean?
- An X marks a cell you know is blank. It helps separate clue groups and prevents overfilling a line.
- What should I do when I am stuck?
- Look for forced overlaps, completed clue groups, and lines where your blank marks reduce the remaining options.