Math Puzzle

KenKen

Fill the grid using math and logic. A puzzle that makes you smarter!

3x3 - Beginner3×3 Grid
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Math Logic Puzzle

Select Puzzle:

+ Addition- Subtraction× Multiplication÷ Division

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About KenKen

KenKen (also known as KenDoku or MathDoku) is a mathematical puzzle invented by Japanese educator Tetsuya Miyamoto in 2004. The name means "cleverness squared" in Japanese, reflecting its goal of developing mathematical thinking skills.

Like Sudoku, KenKen requires you to fill a grid so each row and column contains unique numbers. But KenKen adds an extra layer: cells are grouped into "cages" with arithmetic constraints. Each cage shows a target number and an operation that the numbers must satisfy.

KenKen puzzles come in various sizes and difficulty levels. Our collection starts with beginner-friendly 3×3 grids and progresses to more challenging sizes. It's an excellent way to practice arithmetic while developing logical thinking skills!

How to Play KenKen

1

Fill the Grid

Click a cell and enter a number. For an NxN grid, use numbers 1 through N. Each row and column must contain each number exactly once.

2

Satisfy the Cages

Each outlined cage shows a target and operation. The numbers in that cage must combine using the operation to equal the target.

3

Use Logic

Combine arithmetic knowledge with logical deduction to solve the puzzle. No guessing needed!

Frequently Asked Questions

KenKen is a mathematical puzzle that combines arithmetic and logic. You fill a grid with numbers (1 to N for an NxN grid) so that each row and column contains each number exactly once, while also satisfying the arithmetic constraints in each 'cage'.
Click on a cell and enter a number. Each row and column must contain numbers 1 through N (where N is the grid size) without repetition. Additionally, the numbers in each outlined cage must combine using the given operation (+, -, ×, ÷) to produce the target number.
Each cage shows a target number and an operation. For addition (+), the numbers must sum to the target. For subtraction (-) and division (÷), the result of the larger minus/divided by smaller equals the target. For multiplication (×), the product equals the target.
Yes! Our KenKen game is completely free to play online with no downloads required. Your progress is automatically saved in your browser.
The game is fully optimized for mobile devices, tablets, and desktop computers. Tap cells to select them and use the number pad to enter values.
While both require unique numbers in rows and columns, KenKen adds arithmetic operations. Sudoku uses fixed number placements as clues, while KenKen uses mathematical constraints in cages.
Start with single-cell cages (the number is given). Look for cages where only one combination works. Use the Latin square rule (no repeats in rows/columns) to eliminate possibilities. Work systematically through intersecting constraints.
KenKen was invented by Japanese educator Tetsuya Miyamoto in 2004. The name means 'cleverness squared' in Japanese. It was designed to improve students' calculation skills and logical thinking.

Tips & Strategies

  • •Start with single-cell cages - the target IS the number
  • •For 2-cell subtraction/division cages, there's only one pair that works
  • •Use row/column constraints to eliminate impossible numbers
  • •Work on cages that intersect with known cells first
  • •Remember: numbers can repeat in a cage (just not in same row/column)

Why Play KenKen?

Math Practice

Improve arithmetic skills

Logic Training

Develops reasoning skills

Educational

Used in schools worldwide

Free Forever

No payment required

Related Games

If you enjoy KenKen, try these other math and logic puzzles:

SudokuKakuroNonogramAll Games
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