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Beginner clue

This pair cannot match

Also known in the clue library as Inequality (pair is not linked).

false
Clue pattern
A is not linked to B.
What to mark first
Place the no immediately.
Common mistake
Treating a no-mark as weak information. Enough no-marks can force a yes later.
Mini-example
Mina is not the baker.
Print-book tip
A neat X is enough. Save heavier notation for confirmed yes-marks.

When and where this clue pays off

Two questions matter more than the pattern itself: does this clue give you everything now, or only later — and does it become a mark on the board, or a note you have to keep separately?

Settles on first read

One reading, one mark. Nothing about this clue changes as the board fills in.

Marks the board directly

It converts directly into a no-mark. No notes required.

Techniques that use this clue

Reading the clue is half the job. These are the methods that turn it into board progress.

Put it to work

See this clue type on a live board, or go back and browse the rest of the library.

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