This Sudoku solver is a Java-based program that uses the backtracking algorithm to efficiently solve Sudoku puzzles.
Sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle. The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid with digits so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 subgrids contains all of the digits from 1 to 9. Here are the rules:
- Each row must contain the digits 1-9 without repetition.
- Each column must contain the digits 1-9 without repetition.
- Each of the nine 3x3 subgrids must contain the digits 1-9 without repetition.
The backtracking algorithm is a recursive algorithm used to solve constraint satisfaction problems, such as Sudoku puzzles. Here's how it works:
- Start with an empty cell on the Sudoku board.
- Try all possible numbers (1-9) for the empty cell.
- If a number is valid (i.e., it doesn't violate Sudoku rules), move to the next empty cell and repeat the process recursively.
- If there are no valid numbers for the current cell, backtrack to the previous cell and try a different number.
- Repeat this process until the entire Sudoku puzzle is filled, satisfying all constraints.
To use the Sudoku solver, simply run the Java program and input the initial Sudoku board. The solver will then proceed to solve the puzzle and display the solution.