How to Use Logic to Solve Puzzles

Learn how to break down tricky puzzles into manageable steps using logical thinking and deduction. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Read the entire puzzle first. Before you start writing, read the goal of the puzzle and all the clues provided. Understanding the big picture helps you see which pieces of information are most important.
2. Look for the 'easy wins'. Scan the clues for statements that are 100% certain, such as 'The blue ball is in the middle.' Mark these on your grid or paper immediately, as they act as anchors for the rest of the puzzle.
3. Use a deduction grid. If the puzzle involves matching items, draw a simple grid. Put a checkmark if two things match and an 'X' if they don't. When you find an 'X', think about what that means for the other boxes in that row or column.
4. Process of elimination. If you are stuck, look at what cannot be true. By crossing off the options that are impossible, you will eventually be left with only one correct answer.