Brain Booster

Ken-Ken

A bite-sized arithmetic logic puzzle. Fill the grid so every row and column holds each digit once, and each cage hits its target.

What is KenKen?

KenKen is a grid-based logic puzzle. Fill an N×N grid with the digits 1 to N so that no digit repeats in any row or column. The grid is split into outlined groups called cages — each shows a target and an operation, and the digits in the cage must combine, using that operation, to produce the target.

How to play

  1. 1

    Fill rows and columns

    Place the digits 1 to N so each appears exactly once in every row and every column.

  2. 2

    Satisfy each cage

    An outlined cage shows a target and an operation. The digits inside must combine, using that operation, to make the target.

  3. 3

    Use notes and checks

    Jot candidate digits as notes, toggle rule-checking to spot duplicates, and reveal mistakes if you get stuck.

Operations

+

Addition

Cage digits add up to the target (any cage size).

Subtraction

Two cells; the target is their absolute difference.

×

Multiplication

Cage digits multiply to the target (any cage size).

÷

Division

Two cells; the larger divided by the smaller equals the target (whole numbers only).

Difficulty levels

Easy

3×3, 4×4, 5×5 · + − × (÷ on 3×3)

Gentle grids to learn the ropes.

Intermediate

4×4, 5×5 · + − × ÷

All four operations in play — the daily puzzle's tier.

Hard

6×6, 7×7 · + − × ÷

Bigger boards and tighter cages.

Genius

8×8, 9×9 · + − × ÷

A serious workout for puzzle veterans.