Naked Pair
Level 3 · Yellow Belt
Prerequisite: Naked SubsetsLearn next → Naked SingleLearn next → Almost Locked SetsLearn next → BUG+1Learn next → Naked TripleLearn next → Unique Rectangle Type 1Learn next → W-WingLearn next → XY-Wing
Overview
A Naked Pair consists of two cells in the same house that contain exactly the same two candidates and nothing else. Since those two digits must occupy those two cells, they can be eliminated from all other cells in the house.
How It Works
- Find two cells in the same house that contain exactly the same two candidates.
- These two cells will contain those two digits (though we don't know which goes where).
- Eliminate both candidates from all other cells in that house.
Example
Find two cells in column 1 that both have only candidates 4 and 5.
1 / 19
Tips & Patterns
- Naked Pairs are easier to spot than Hidden Pairs because the cells have exactly two candidates.
- Look for cells with only 2 candidates and check if another cell matches.
- Naked Pairs often lead to chain reactions of eliminations.