How Do You Play Nerdle? A Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Daily Math Puzzle

If you love Wordle but crave a numerical twist, Nerdle is the perfect game for you. This math-based puzzle challenges players to guess a hidden equation using logic, deduction, and arithmetic skills. But if you’re wondering, “How do you play Nerdle?”—you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down the rules, strategies, and tips to help you solve the daily Nerdle puzzle like a pro.

What Is Nerdle?

Nerdle is a daily online puzzle game where players guess a mathematical equation within six attempts. Inspired by Wordle, it replaces letters with numbers and operators (like +, -, *, /, and =). Each guess must be a valid calculation, and feedback is provided through color-coded tiles to help narrow down the solution. The game resets every 24 hours, offering a fresh challenge for math enthusiasts.

How to Play Nerdle: Rules and Gameplay Explained

1. The Objective

Your goal in Nerdle is to guess the correct 8-character equation in as few tries as possible (up to six guesses). The equation follows standard arithmetic rules and includes:

• Numbers (0-9)

• Operators: +, -, *, /

• An equals sign (=)

• No negative numbers or fractions

For example, a valid Nerdle equation could be 12+35=47 or 9*8-2=70.

2. The Grid Structure

Nerdle’s grid consists of six rows, each with eight tiles. Every row represents a guess, and each tile corresponds to a character in your equation. After submitting a guess, the tiles change color to provide feedback:

• Green: The character is correct and in the right position.

• Purple: The character is correct but in the wrong position.

• Black: The character is not in the equation.

3. Crafting Your First Guess

Start with a mathematically sound equation that uses a variety of numbers and operators. A strong opening guess maximizes the information you gain from feedback. Popular starters include:

• 10-5-3=2 (tests multiple operations and numbers)

• 8*7=56 (tests multiplication and placement of =)

Avoid repeating numbers or operators in early guesses to cover more possibilities.

4. Understanding Feedback

Let’s say your first guess is 12+35=47, and the feedback shows:

• 1 in green

• 2 in black

• + in purple

• 3 in black

• 5 in purple

• = in black

• 4 and 7 in black

This tells you:

• The equation starts with 1.

• + and 5 are present but in different positions.

• 2, 3, 4, 7, and = in their current spots are incorrect.

5. Refining Subsequent Guesses

Use the feedback to eliminate possibilities. For instance, if 1 is green in the first position, your next guess might be 1*8-5=3 to test new operators and numbers while keeping 1 fixed.

Top Tips to Solve Nerdle Faster

1. Balance Equations Early
   Ensure your guesses include an = sign. Since every equation must have one, testing its position early helps narrow down options.

2. Leverage Order of Operations
   Remember PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction). Nerdle equations follow these rules, so structure guesses accordingly.

3. Avoid Repeating Characters
   Repeats reduce the diversity of feedback. If your run 3 first guess has two 5s, you won’t know which one is correct if purple appears.

4. Track Used Characters
   Keep a mental list of numbers/operators ruled out by black tiles to avoid repeating them.

5. Experiment with Operator Placement
   Test different operators (e.g., * vs. +) in varying positions to see which fit the feedback.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Invalid Equations: Always check that your guess is mathematically correct. For example, 5+7=13 is invalid because 5+7=12.

• Ignoring the = Sign: The equation must have one =, and it can’t be the first or last character.

• Overcomplicating: Start simple. Complex equations with multiple operations are harder to debug.

How Is Nerdle Different from Wordle?

While both games share a similar grid-based format, Nerdle’s math focus adds unique layers:

1. Logic vs. Vocabulary: Nerdle requires arithmetic logic, not vocabulary knowledge.

2. Fixed Structure: Equations must follow mathematical rules, limiting creative guesses.

3. Character Types: Numbers and operators replace letters, offering a fresh challenge.

Advanced Strategies for Nerdle Experts

• Double-Check Calculations: A small arithmetic error could lead you astray. Verify each guess before submitting.

• Focus on Operator Patterns: If purple tiles hint at a * or /, prioritize equations with those operators.

• Use the “Mini Nerdle” Version: Practice with the 6-character Mini Nerdle to hone your skills faster.

Why Play Nerdle?

Nerdle isn’t just fun—it’s a brain workout. It sharpens mental math skills, improves logical reasoning, and offers a satisfying daily challenge. Plus, sharing your results on social media (using spoiler-free grids) adds a competitive edge!

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to play Nerdle, it’s time to put your math skills to the test! Start with a strategic first guess, analyze feedback carefully, and eliminate possibilities systematically. Whether you solve it in two tries or six, the thrill of cracking the code is unbeatable. Ready to take on today’s Nerdle? Head to and let the numbers game begin!

By following this guide, you’ll not only master Nerdle but also enjoy the satisfaction of outsmarting equations one puzzle at a time. Happy calculating