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Snyder Notation Cheat Sheet

Quick Reference for Faster Solving

By Minimal Sudoku TeamLast updated:

Keep this cheat sheet handy while solving. It covers the core rule, when to mark, what patterns to spot, and common pitfalls — everything you need for effective Snyder Notation on one page.

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The Core Rule

📐

2 cells = mark it. Anything else = don't.

New to Snyder? Read the full guide orbeginner intro first.

When to Mark

✅
MARK
Number can go in exactly 2 cells in the box
❌
DON'T MARK
Number can go in 3+ cells in the box
🎯
PLACE IT
Number can only go in 1 cell — solve it!

Where to Write

✅ Correct: Corners
3
7

Small numbers in corners

❌ Avoid: Center
3 7

Center is for full notation

Patterns to Spot

Snyder marks reveal these patterns automatically:

👉

Pointing Pair

Both marks for a number are in the same row (or column) within a box.

→ Eliminate that number from the rest of that row/column outside the box.

👀

Hidden Pair

Two cells in a box only have the same two candidates marked.

→ Those two cells must contain those two numbers (eliminates other candidates).

1️⃣

Hidden Single

After placing a number, one of your Snyder pairs becomes a single.

→ Place that number immediately — it's the only option left.

Solving Workflow

1
Scan & SolvePlace any obvious numbers first
2
Mark Bi-ValuesApply Snyder rule box by box
3
Spot PatternsLook for pointing pairs, hidden singles
4
Update & RepeatAfter each placement, check for new bi-values
5
If Stuck: Full NotationSwitch to marking all candidates

Common Mistakes

❌ Over-marking

Writing candidates when there are 3+ possibilities defeats the purpose.

❌ Forgetting to update

After placing a number, 3-option situations may become 2-option.

❌ Ignoring revealed singles

When a Snyder pair becomes a single, place it immediately.

❌ Mixing notation styles

Keep corners for Snyder, center for full notation. Don't mix in one cell.

Quick Tips

💡 Start with full boxes

Boxes with 5+ givens are most likely to have useful bi-value situations.

💡 Check affected areas

After placing a number, focus on its row, column, and box for new marks.

💡 Same row = pointing pair

When both marks are in one row, you've found an elimination opportunity.

💡 Integrate with scanning

Mark bi-values as you scan — don't treat it as a separate phase.

Reference Card

Here's everything on one card — screenshot or print this:

SNYDER NOTATION

Quick Reference Card

THE RULE

Mark when a number can go in exactly 2 cells in a box. Write in corners.

WHEN TO MARK

  • ✅ 2 possible cells → Mark both
  • ❌ 3+ possible cells → Don't mark
  • 🎯 1 possible cell → Place it!

PATTERNS

  • Pointing Pair: Both marks in same row/col
  • Hidden Pair: Same 2 candidates in 2 cells
  • Hidden Single: Pair reduced to single

REMEMBER

  • • Update after each placement
  • • Start with fullest boxes
  • • Switch to full notation if stuck

minimal-sudoku.com/learn/snyder

📱 Save for Mobile
Take a screenshot of the reference card above to have it handy on your phone while solving puzzles.

Practice Makes Perfect

Put this cheat sheet to use. Play free Sudoku with built-in Snyder notation support.

Start Playing

Learn More

📐Complete Snyder Guide🌱Snyder for Beginners⚖️Snyder vs Full Notation👉Pointing Pairs👀Hidden Pairs