Learn & Tutorials

Master puzzle-solving techniques and strategies

Expand your puzzle vocabulary with WordLibrary, explore nuanced clue swaps inside SynonymPro, and lock in crisp definitions through WordWell before tackling our tutorials.

Puzzle Tutorials

Solitaire

Learn the rules of Klondike, Spider, FreeCell, and Pyramid Solitaire. Understand card placement rules, foundation building, and winning strategies.

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Minesweeper

Master number patterns, flagging techniques, and logical deduction. Learn to identify safe cells and avoid mines using mathematical reasoning.

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Mahjong Solitaire

Understand tile matching rules, blocking mechanics, and strategic planning. Learn to identify free tiles and plan ahead for complex layouts.

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Sudoku

Learn solving techniques from naked singles to advanced X-wing patterns. Understand pencil marks, constraint propagation, and logical reasoning.

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Advanced Strategies

Sudoku Solving Techniques

Naked Singles

When only one number can fit in a cell, place it immediately. This is the most basic technique.

Hidden Singles

When a number can only go in one cell within a row, column, or box, even if that cell has other candidates.

Naked Pairs/Triples

When two or three cells in a unit share the same two or three candidates, eliminate those numbers from other cells in that unit.

X-Wing Pattern

Advanced technique: When a candidate appears in only two rows (or columns) at the same column (or row) positions, eliminate that candidate from other cells in those columns (or rows).

Solitaire Winning Tips

  • Always move Aces and Twos to the foundation immediately
  • Expose face-down cards as your top priority
  • Build tableau sequences in descending order with alternating colors
  • Empty columns are valuable - use them strategically for Kings
  • Think several moves ahead before committing to a play
  • In Spider Solitaire, try to build complete suits when possible

Minesweeper Pattern Recognition

  • A "1" touching one unopened cell means that cell is a mine
  • A "1" touching one mine and one unopened cell means the unopened cell is safe
  • The "1-2-1" pattern indicates mines on the outer edges
  • Start from corners and edges where patterns are easier to read
  • Use chord clicking (middle-click) when all adjacent mines are flagged
  • When stuck, look for cells that must be mines through elimination

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my game progress saved?

Yes! All your game progress, statistics, and preferences are automatically saved in your browser's local storage. Your data never leaves your device and is completely private.

Can I play offline?

Yes! PuzzleLab is a Progressive Web App (PWA) that works offline. Once you've visited the site, all games will continue to function without an internet connection.

How are puzzles generated?

All puzzles are generated locally in your browser using algorithms that ensure fair and solvable challenges. Sudoku and Minesweeper puzzles are created with guaranteed solutions.

What keyboard shortcuts are available?

Most games support keyboard controls. For Sudoku: number keys (1-9) place numbers, arrow keys navigate, N toggles notes mode. For Solitaire: arrow keys navigate cards, Space draws from deck, Undo with U key. Check each game's help section for complete shortcuts.

Are there daily challenges?

Daily challenges are coming soon! We're working on implementing synchronized daily puzzles for Sudoku, Solitaire, and other games so you can compare your performance with others.

How is my data handled?

Your privacy is important. All game data, statistics, and preferences are stored locally in your browser using IndexedDB. No personal information is collected or sent to any servers. For complete details, see our Privacy Policy.

Helpful Resources

Looking for more puzzle-solving tools and resources? Check out these helpful sites: