How to Play Kakuro

THE PLAYBOOK · AHETV

How to play Kakuro

Choose a round of Kakuro and settle into its rules. Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Practise sums on twelve small, unblocked 4×4 grids. These teaching boards use whole-row and whole-column totals rather than the blocked runs of classic Kakuro.

Focus on one rule

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Your goal

Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

Step by step

1. Compare a row total with its fixed entries.
2. Use the column total for the same blank.
3. Enter digits 1–9.
4. Check puzzle verifies totals and non-repetition.

Controls

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful example

A row total 18 with fixed values 2, 4 and 7 requires 5 in the remaining cell. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Read the matching step again.

Watch out for this

Repeated digits in a run are forbidden even when the sum matches. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Common questions