▦ Nonogram Coach

Nonogram guide

How to Solve 5x5 Nonograms

A simple 5x5 nonogram solving guide for first-time picture-logic players.

Quick answer

For a 5x5 nonogram, start with the largest clues. A clue of 5 fills the whole row or column; a clue of 4 must overlap in the middle cells; completed clues let you mark surrounding cells empty.

Search intent: Beginner how-to query for small nonogram puzzles.

Start with full lines

If a row or column clue equals the grid size, fill the entire line.

If a line is fully solved, mark the rest of that line with X marks so you do not accidentally fill it later.

Use overlap on big clues

On a 5-wide line, a clue of 4 can start in only two places. The middle three cells are filled in both placements, so they are safe.

Switch direction often

Every filled or crossed cell changes what is possible in the perpendicular clues. That back-and-forth is the core nonogram rhythm.

Practice this in the app

Start with 5x5 lessons, then move into prettier 8x8 picture puzzles.