Monkeymore Sudoku

Grouped X-Cycles

المستوى 11 · Red Belt

المتطلب السابق: Single-Digit Chains

Overview

Grouped X-Cycles extend X-Cycles by allowing grouped nodes - where multiple cells in a box-line intersection act as a single node. This enables stronger chains and more elimination opportunities.

How It Works

  1. Build a chain for a single digit using individual cells and grouped nodes.
  2. A grouped node represents all occurrences of the digit in a box-line intersection.
  3. Strong links connect a node to its conjugate; weak links connect nodes sharing a house.
  4. Apply the same loop rules as X-Cycles: continuous loops eliminate; discontinuous loops force or eliminate.

Example

Found a Grouped X-Cycle on digit 2.

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Tips & Patterns

  • Grouped nodes represent 2-3 cells acting as one unit.
  • The group is 'on' if any cell in it contains the digit.
  • This is a natural extension of X-Cycles that handles more complex single-digit patterns.