Nonogram Solving Techniques

1. The overlap (big numbers first)

Slide a run as far left as it can go, then as far right. Cells covered both times must be filled. In a row of 10, a clue of 7 fills the middle 4 cells immediately. For several numbers, push the whole clue left, then right, and compare each run.

2. Add up the clue

If the numbers plus one gap between each fill the line exactly (like 4 5 in 10 cells), the row is fully determined.

3. Cross what's finished

When a line's runs are all placed, cross the remaining cells. Those crosses feed the lines going the other way.

4. Use the edges

A filled cell next to the edge (or a cross) must be the start of a run: extend it by the run's length and cross the cell after.

5. Too long to fit, too short to reach

If a gap between crosses is shorter than every remaining run, it's empty. If a filled cell is too far from the start for the first run, it belongs to a later one.

6. Go back and forth

Every cell you settle in a row is a new fact for its column. Sweep across rows, then down columns, and repeat. All kawu puzzles can be solved this way.

Stuck? Hint shows the next cell logic gives you. Play a nonogram or read the rules.

Last updated 2026-10-19