Have you started a puzzle and don't know how to proceed ? Don't worry, it's a completely normal situation. Here are some helpful tips on how to finish a puzzle faster . First of all, I want to remind you of an important thing: completing a puzzle, especially one with 1,000 pieces , takes time. Even the most experienced puzzlers can take 8-9 hours to complete it , while a 500-piece puzzle takes an average of 4-5 hours . So if after a couple of hours you feel like you're only halfway through, that's okay: you're perfectly on time.
3 Tricks to Do Puzzles Faster
Here are 3 non-trivial tips that will help you find the parts more easily:
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Work by texture, not color : Many people search for pieces based solely on color (e.g., "green pieces" for a lawn), but texture is even more useful. Look closely at the image: the blur, the fine lines, the shadows, the small details.
For example, a patch of sky with clouds may appear to be entirely blue, but it has nuances, brush or print directions, and shadows. Categorize your pieces by these visual micro-details, not just by color.
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Use an invisible mental (or physical) grid :
Imagine the puzzle as divided into a 3x3 or 4x4 grid . This way, you can focus on one section at a time , avoiding searching for blank pieces all over the picture.
You can also use paper tape or small post-it notes to create temporary boundaries on your work surface. This method helps you focus your attention , quickly locate the right pieces, and reduce visual stress. -
Use the “ passive recognition ” method : As you search for pieces in a given area, don't ignore the ones you “recognize” without looking for them. This is a powerful mental strategy: the brain subconsciously registers the location of visually distinctive pieces.
When you hover over specific pieces (e.g., a window, a number, a face), memorize them passively. Even if you don't need them right away, when you do, you'll already know where they are—saving you precious minutes.
With these tips, solving a puzzle will not only be easier, but also more fun. You'll find that the time spent will be much more enjoyable and rewarding, because you'll be able to progress with less frustration and more satisfaction.
