Minesweeper Tips and Patterns
Start with one number and count the mines around it. Then compare nearby numbers. Each guide shows a board and explains the next move.
Which pattern should I learn first?
Start by finding one mine and one safe square. Next, compare two numbers with 1-1 and 1-2. Then try 1-2-1 and 1-2-2-1. Finally, practice subtracting known mines and counting the mines left.
Start with one number
How to Find Mines in Minesweeper
Learn a simple Minesweeper rule. If only one square can hold the last mine around a number, that square has the mine.
See the exampleHow to Find Safe Squares in Minesweeper
Learn to find safe squares in Minesweeper. Once you know all the mines around a number, its other nearby squares are safe.
See the exampleNumber patterns
Minesweeper 1-1 Pattern
Compare two 1s to find a safe square. You can make a safe move before you know where the mine is.
See the exampleMinesweeper 1-2 Pattern
Compare a 1 and a 2 to find a mine. The extra square holds the extra mine.
See the exampleMinesweeper 1-2-1 Pattern
Learn the Minesweeper 1-2-1 pattern with a simple example. Find mines at both ends and a safe square in the middle.
See the exampleMinesweeper 1-2-2-1 Pattern
Learn the Minesweeper 1-2-2-1 pattern. A clear example shows why the two middle squares have mines and the two ends are safe.
See the exampleReducing Minesweeper Clues
Subtract mines you already know to spot Minesweeper patterns. See how 2-3-2 becomes 1-2-1 in a clear board example.
See the exampleMore ways to find safe squares
Minesweeper Subset Rule
Learn the Minesweeper subset rule. Compare two groups of squares to find safe squares in the larger group.
See the exampleMinesweeper Endgame: Counting Mines
Learn to use the total mine count near the end of Minesweeper. Count known mines across the whole board to find your next move.
See the example