How to solve nonograms
A nonogram is a puzzle where number clues let you reconstruct a hidden picture by filling in cells on a grid.
If a number is close to the line's length, some cells are filled in every possible placement — the 'overlap'. For example, an 8 in a 10-cell row guarantees 6 cells in the middle.
- 1
Read the clues
The numbers beside a row or column are the lengths of runs of filled cells, in order, each separated by at least one empty cell.
- 2
Start with big numbers
If a number is close to the line's length, some cells are filled in every possible placement — the 'overlap'. For example, an 8 in a 10-cell row guarantees 6 cells in the middle.
- 3
Mark the empties
Mark cells that are definitely empty with a cross ✕ (right mouse button). It narrows the options and keeps you from mistakes.
- 4
Alternate rows and columns
After filling something in a row, check what it implies for the columns — and vice versa. The clues gradually complete each other.
- 5
No guessing
A good nonogram always has a single solution that follows logically. If you're stuck, look for the line with the largest number or one that's almost complete.
Controls
- •Left mouse button (or tap) — fill a cell.
- •Right button — mark ✕. Hold and drag to fill several cells at once.
- •The 'Hint' button reveals one correct cell if you're stuck.
- •The solution is checked automatically once every line matches its clues.