A nonogram is a picture hidden behind numbers. The clues beside each row and above each column tell you how many cells to fill, and in what order. Follow the logic line by line and a little pixel image appears.
The rules
- The numbers beside a row list its runs of filled cells, from left to right. Column numbers list runs from top to bottom.
- A clue of “3 1” means a run of three filled cells, then at least one empty cell, then a single filled cell.
- Runs are always separated by at least one empty cell. A clue of 0 means the line is empty.
Tap a cell to fill it. Switch to Cross mode to mark cells you know are empty. Drag to paint a whole run in one motion. When a line matches its clue, its numbers fade.
Technique 1: The overlap
This is the workhorse of nonograms. Imagine the run pushed as far left as possible, then as far right as possible. Any cells covered in both positions must be filled.
Quick formula: if a clue is bigger than half the line, the middle overlaps. For a single run of length k in a line of length n, exactly 2k − n cells are certain.
Technique 2: Add it up
Add the clue numbers plus one gap between each pair. If that total equals the line length, the whole line is determined.
Technique 3: Edges anchor runs
A filled cell touching the edge of the board must belong to the first run of that line. That run starts at the edge, so you can fill it to its full length and cross out the cell after it.
Technique 4: Let lines talk to each other
Every cell belongs to one row and one column. When you fill or cross out a cell while working on a row, that new fact may unlock a column. Alternate between rows and columns, and the picture builds up quickly.
Cross out generously. Empty cells are just as useful as filled ones: they cap runs and shrink the space a clue can move in.
Technique 5: One-step test
On larger weekend grids you may reach a point where no single line gives anything new. Pick a cell and imagine it filled; follow the consequences for a few lines. If a clue becomes impossible, the cell is empty. PuzzPik nonograms never need more than one such test at a time.
Tips
- Bold lines every five cells make counting easier.
- Faded clues mean that line is already correct.
- Hold Shift (or switch to Cross mode) to mark empty cells.
FAQ
Are nonograms the same as Picross, Griddlers or Hanjie?+
Yes. They are different names for the same puzzle.
Do I have to mark empty cells?+
No. Only filled cells are checked. Crosses are notes that help you think.
Will the picture always look like something?+
PuzzPik nonograms are symmetric pixel motifs, so the finished grid always forms a pattern.