Cracking Sudoku — How to Explore Backtracking Algorithms With Python

This article is designed to guide you through the intricacies of the Sudoku puzzle, the concept of backtracking in algorithms, and how the two intersect. Whether you’re an experienced Python programmer or a beginner eager to improve your problem-solving skills, this exploration is for you. Sudoku, a logic-based number placement puzzle, has swept the globe with its elegant blend of simplicity and mental challenge. The puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid subdivided into nine 3x3 subgrids. The objective is to fill each empty cell so that each digit from 1 to 9 appears once in every row, every column, and every 3x3 subgrid. The puzzle begins with some cells filled, providing a unique starting point for each game. This seemingly simple game requires strategy and problem-solving skills — much like programming. As you delve into the depths of Sudoku, you’ll find that it mirrors many aspects of programming, from the need for logic and precise rules to the importance of breaking down larger problems into manageable parts. Throughout this article, we’ll explore the world of Sudoku puzzles, delve into the realm of backtracking algorithms, and ultimately implement a Python program that can solve any given Sudoku puzzle. We’ll examine why Sudoku is a fitting problem for backtracking and how the algorithm systematically navigates the potential solutions, moving forward and backtracking when necessary. <a href="https://itnext.io/cracking-sudoku-how-to-explore-backtracking-algorithms-with-python-63a67067045d">Read More</a>