Genius Academy / Level 5

LEVEL 5

Hidden Pair

Two digits occur in only the same two cells of a house.

How to find it

  1. Count where each missing digit can appear.
  2. Find two digits restricted to the same two cells.
  3. Remove all other candidates from those cells.

Logical demonstration

The violet cells represent the pattern; the gold cell represents the resulting placement or elimination. Verify every highlighted candidate belongs to the required houses before acting.

Common mistakes

  • Using cells that do not share the required row, column, box or peer relationship.
  • Removing a candidate before confirming every occurrence in the pattern.
  • Confusing a possible pattern with a completed logical proof.

Practise the technique

Open a real puzzle, keep candidate notes accurate and ask Genius Coach to identify the next supported logical move.

Practise on a puzzle