Puzzles — Definition

Definition

A reasoning puzzle describes objects, positions or categories and gives clues that restrict how they can be combined. A solution must satisfy all the clues simultaneously. The question may ask for a complete arrangement, something that must hold in every valid arrangement, or something that could hold in at least one.

A grid, ordered row or set of cases makes these relationships easier to track. The central skill is translating each clue accurately and preserving the difference between a confirmed fact, a temporary assumption and a conclusion that remains uncertain.