Skip to content
ZZDXKJ

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Nonogram

Play Nonogram ↗

Game guide · ZZDXKJ

A practical guide to Nonogram

Try Nonogram at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Shade the grid so every row and column matches its run-length clues. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

Work through a collection of twelve 5×5 picture puzzles.

One thing to notice as you play

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.

What you need to achieve

Shade the grid so every row and column matches its run-length clues. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

The order of play

  1. Cycle a square between filled, crossed and blank.
  2. Keep separate runs apart by at least one blank.
  3. Combine row and column deductions.
  4. Check puzzle verifies the finished grid.

Getting comfortable with the controls

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

An example to follow

Clue 2 1 requires a run of two, a blank separator, and a run of one. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Read the matching step again.

A common point of confusion

Do not merge two separate runs. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Game-specific help

What is the goal of Nonogram?

For clarity: Shade the grid so every row and column matches its run-length clues.

While learning, how do I control Nonogram?

Keep this in mind: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Nonogram?

The key detail is this: Clue 2 1 requires a run of two, a blank separator, and a run of one.

Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Nonogram?

Keep this in mind: Do not merge two separate runs.

Before I begin, what format does Nonogram offer?

Work through a collection of twelve 5×5 picture puzzles.

While learning, which play mode does Nonogram use?

The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Nonogram?

For clarity: Cycle a square between filled, crossed and blank.

For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Nonogram?

The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

Before I begin, how can I find Nonogram again?

The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

While learning, how do I report an issue with Nonogram?

The key detail is this: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)