The 2-String Kite is a powerful single-digit strategy that, like the Skyscraper, is a variation of the Turbot Fish.
While the Skyscraper connects two parallel lines (Row-Row or Col-Col), the 2-String Kite connects a Row and a Column.
Interactive Example
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Click "Apply Logic" to see the strategy in action.
Real Example Explanation
In the interactive example above, look at the number 4:
- String 1 (The Row): Look at Row 4.
- The 4 appears only twice: at R4C1 and R4C2.
- This is a Strong Link: One of them must be a 4.
- String 2 (The Column): Look at Column 3.
- The 4 appears only twice: at R2C3 and R5C3.
- This is also a Strong Link.
- The Knot (The Connection):
- We need to tie these two strings together.
- Notice that R4C1 (from the Row) and R5C3 (from the Column) are both in Box 4 (the middle-left 3x3 box).
- Because they share a box, they "see" each other. They cannot both be 4.
- The Logic:
- If R4C2 is NOT 4 -> Then R4C1 MUST be 4.
- If R4C1 is 4 -> Then R5C3 cannot be 4 (same box).
- If R5C3 is NOT 4 -> Then R2C3 MUST be 4.
- Result: Either the start of the chain (R4C2) is 4, or the end of the chain (R2C3) is 4.
- The Elimination:
- Since at least one of the endpoints (R4C2 or R2C3) must be a 4, any cell that sees BOTH can be cleared.
- R2C2 sees R4C2 (Column 2) and R2C3 (Row 2). It cannot be a 4.
How to Spot It
- Pick a Number: Scan rows and columns for Strong Links (where the number appears exactly twice).
- Find a Corner: Look for a Row-Link and a Col-Link that meet in a common 3x3 Box.
- Check the "Knot": The ends meeting in the box must be different cells.
- Identify Endpoints: The other ends of the strings (outside the box) are your "Kite Tips".
- Eliminate: Remove the candidate from any cell seeing both Tips.
Quick Comparison
- Skyscraper: 2 Rows (or 2 Cols) connected by a column/row. Parallel lines.
- 2-String Kite: 1 Row and 1 Col connected by a Box. Perpendicular lines.