Fences strategy

Fences strategy guide

Start with the clues that have the least freedom. A good Fences solve usually grows from forced edges, crossed-off edges, and the rule that the final line cannot branch.

Play Fences Read rules

Good first moves

Start with 0 cluesAll four surrounding edges are empty, so mark them before they distract you later.

Check 3 cluesA 3 almost fills its square. Nearby 3s and corners often force several lines quickly.

Count remaining edgesIf a clue already has enough lines, the other surrounding edges must be empty.

Respect every nodeA loop node can have either zero or two line edges. One line edge needs a partner; three is impossible.

Simple solving flow

Mark obvious empty edges around 0 clues.
Add forced lines around 3 clues and tight corners.
After every line, check nearby clues for satisfied counts.
Use node degree to avoid loose ends, branches, and small closed loops before the full puzzle is done.
Repeat local deductions before guessing.

Common mistake

Do not close a small loop early unless it uses every final line. Fences needs one connected loop, so an isolated loop means the remaining clues have nowhere to join.