Rules
The computer hides a number made of three (or four) different digits. After each guess you get a clue: a strike (S) for a correct digit in the correct spot, a ball (B) for a correct digit in the wrong spot, and OUT when none of your digits appear. If the answer is 852, guessing 825 gives 1S 2B.
Solving faster
- Open with guesses that share no digits, such as 123, 456 and 789, to find which digits are in play.
- Cross out every digit from an OUT on the notepad.
- Once you know the digits, change one position at a time to pin down the order.
This pencil-and-paper game is also known as Bulls and Cows.