Nonogram Puzzles
Reveal hidden pictures through pure logical deduction
Nonogram puzzles, also known as Picross or Griddlers, are picture logic puzzles where you fill in cells on a grid to reveal a hidden image. Using only the number clues along each row and column, you deduce which cells to fill and which to leave empty. Every puzzle has exactly one solution reachable through pure logical deduction - no guessing required.
How to Solve Nonogram Puzzles
Reading Clues
Numbers along each row and column indicate consecutive groups of filled cells, separated by at least one empty cell.
Overlap Technique
Compare the leftmost and rightmost possible positions for each block. Cells that overlap in both positions must be filled.
Mark Empty Cells
Use X marks to indicate cells that must be empty. This helps narrow down possibilities for remaining blocks.
Edge Logic
When a filled cell touches the edge of the grid, you know exactly where that block starts or ends.
Full Lines
If the clues add up to the full line length (including gaps), the entire line is determined immediately.
Cross-Reference
Progress in one line reveals information for crossing lines. Alternate between rows and columns for steady progress.
Advanced Nonogram Solving Techniques
Mastering Nonogram puzzles beyond the basics requires combining multiple deduction strategies. These techniques help you tackle larger and more challenging grids.
- Use the overlap method on every line to find guaranteed fills
- Look for completed lines and mark all remaining cells as empty
- Track which blocks are partially placed to narrow their positions
- Work on lines with the most information first (largest clues, most cells known)
- Use contradiction: assume a cell is filled/empty and check if it leads to an impossibility
- On larger puzzles, focus on the edges and corners first for quick progress
Nonogram Puzzle FAQ
Is a Nonogram the same as Picross?
Yes! Nonograms go by many names: Picross (Nintendo), Griddlers, Hanjie, and Paint by Numbers. They all follow the same rules.
What does the clue "0" mean?
A clue of "0" means the entire row or column is empty - no cells should be filled in that line.
Where should I start solving?
Start with lines that have the largest clues relative to line length. These give the most overlap and guaranteed fills.
Ready to Reveal Hidden Pictures?
Challenge yourself with Nonogram puzzles from 5x5 to 15x15. Each puzzle reveals a unique pattern through pure logical deduction. Print them out and solve anywhere - no screen required.