How to Solve the Sliding Puzzle: A Step-by-Step Method

You don't need to plan the whole solution. Solve a little at a time and never undo what's finished.

1. The top row, one tile at a time

Bring 1 to the top left corner. Then 2 next to it, and so on, leaving the last two tiles of the row for later. Move the gap around the tile you're placing, never through tiles you've already finished.

2. The last two tiles of the row

This is the step everyone gets stuck on. If the row ends with 3 and 4 (on a 4×4):

1. Put 4 in the spot where 3 belongs (the row's second-to-last spot).
2. Put 3 directly below it.
3. Move the gap into the last spot of the row (top right).
4. Slide 4 right, then 3 up. Both are home.

If 3 and 4 end up swapped, take them both out and try again: there's no quick fix.

3. The left column

Do the same thing for the left column: the top tiles one at a time, the last two as a pair (place the bottom tile first, the other beside it, then swing them in).

4. Repeat on the smaller square

Once the top row and left column are done, ignore them. What's left is a smaller puzzle. Solve its top row and left column the same way.

5. The last 2×2

With three tiles and the gap left, just cycle the gap round the little square until all three line up.

Tips

• Think about where the gap goes, not the tiles. The tile you're placing only moves when the gap is next to it.
• Slide whole lines with one tap to save time; it doesn't save moves.
• Use the hint if you get stuck. It follows this same method.

Last updated 2026-10-19