Futoshiki for kids: rules, tips and a free printable 4×4 PDF
Futoshiki for kids explained: the greater-than / less-than puzzle in simple steps, solving tips and a free printable 4×4 futoshiki PDF for ages 8–12.
What is futoshiki?
Futoshiki is a Japanese number puzzle. Fill a 4×4 grid with 1–4 so each number appears once in every row and column — and every < or > sign between two squares must be true.
Three tips
- Look at chains: in a < b < c, the first square can never be the biggest number.
- 1 and 4 first: a square with a > pointing away cannot be 1; one with < cannot be 4.
- Then use sudoku logic: what is missing in this row?
Free printable
Futoshiki 4×4 — free PDF (ages 8–12; heading in Turkish, puzzles need no reading).
More: all free printable logic puzzles · sudoku book for kids
FAQ
What age is futoshiki for?
4×4 futoshiki suits most children from about 8; younger kids can start with picture sudoku.
Is futoshiki harder than sudoku?
It adds one rule (the signs), but a 4×4 grid is small, so it is a good step after 4×4 sudoku.
Is there an answer key?
Answer keys for free sheets are not published.