Thomas Snyder’s Advice for Leveling Up Your Sudoku

3× world champion • structured scanning • lean notes • block training • variants • error logs

1 Scan wide, then narrow

Start with a wide read of rows/columns/boxes to map missing digits; then cross-hatch to collapse options. Snyder centers training around this disciplined read in his blog and “solve like a champion” video. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

2 Note less, update often

Use economical pencil marks—just enough to expose naked/hidden singles—and refresh notes after every placement to cut visual noise and errors. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

3 Train in measurable blocks

Practice in 10–15 minute sets at similar difficulty. Track time, mistakes and stalls; aim for consistent progress, not only PBs. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

4 Build pattern memory with variants

Hand-crafted variants and theme puzzles (Snyder publishes many) broaden pattern memory and transfer speed back to classics. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

5 Keep an error log

After a stall, step back one move and rescan. Capture the first visual tell of the mistake and tag recurring causes (e.g., missed box-row interaction). :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

6 Competition mindset

Pursue fair challenge and continuous logic—no guessing. Snyder’s titles (2007, 2008, 2011) underline the value of structured, trackable training. Practice daily on Ozerlyn Sudoku. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}