Easy 5×5 Kakuro Puzzles
Play free 5×5 Kakuro cross sums with short 2-cell and 3-cell number runs. Perfect for learning unique sum combinations and deduction rules. Free printable PDF with answer key included.
Explore the Japanese Grid Logic & Deductive Solitaire
Test pure deductive reasoning with classic Japanese logic puzzles — cross sums, naval coordinate grids, inequality Latin squares, and pixel art nonograms.
Kakuro (Cross Sums)
The mathematical crossword: partition clues into unique digits 1–9
Learn How to Play, Solve & Teach Easy 5×5 Kakuro Puzzles
Kakuro Solving Techniques & Unique Sum Combinations Cheat Sheet
Master Kakuro (Cross Sums) with our comprehensive solving guide and essential unique combinations cheat sheet. Learn magic number partitions, intersection deductions, min/max bounds, and expert techniques.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Kakuro puzzle (Cross Sums)?+
Kakuro is a classic Japanese mathematical crossword puzzle. Instead of letters and vocabulary clues, the grid features number sums. The goal is to fill contiguous white cells with digits 1 through 9 such that each run adds up to the clue sum, with no digit appearing twice in the same run.
Is the Kakuro generator and printable maker free?+
Yes! You can generate unlimited puzzles, play interactively online with instant conflict checking, and download 2-page printables (puzzle worksheet + verified solution key) 100% free with no signup.
What do the numbers in the split diagonal cells mean?+
Dark cells with a diagonal slash show clue sums. The top-right number is the Across sum for the white cells extending to the right. The bottom-left number is the Down sum for the white cells extending directly below.
Can digits repeat in Kakuro?+
No digit may ever repeat within the same continuous horizontal or vertical run. For example, a sum clue of 4 across 2 cells must be 1+3 (or 3+1); it can never be 2+2 because repeating digits are prohibited.
What are Kakuro unique sum combinations?+
Certain clue sums can only be formed by one specific combination of digits. For example: a sum of 3 across 2 cells is always {1, 2}; 4 in 2 cells is always {1, 3}; 16 in 2 cells is always {7, 9}; and 17 in 2 cells is always {8, 9}. Identifying these unique combinations is the foundation of solving.
Can I print Kakuro worksheets for my math class?+
Yes! Click 'Print / Save PDF' in the top toolbar to download vector PDFs in US Letter or A4 format. Page 1 provides a clean student puzzle with rules and name fields, while Page 2 provides the complete solution key.