Find a rhythm that suits you.

Choose the picture before the number

A picture full of distinct objects gives you more clues than a large area of plain sky. If you are returning to puzzles after a break, a smaller count and varied artwork can be a satisfying place to start. Pieces per box do not tell you everything about difficulty.

Check the finished dimensions, rather than guessing from the piece count. Two puzzles with the same number of pieces can need quite different amounts of table space. Consider piece size too: larger pieces can be easier to handle.

Make room for the unfinished picture

1. Choose a stable surface. Keep enough space for the finished picture and some sorting areas.
2. Find comfortable light. Position a lamp to reduce glare and shadows; move it if glossy pieces become difficult to read.
3. Keep the reference nearby. Prop up the box lid or use the full picture as a guide.
4. Plan your stopping point. A board or mat can be useful if the table needs to serve another purpose.

A simple sorting routine

Turn pieces face up first. Pull out the obvious straight edges, then group by distinctive colours, textures or objects. Make small clusters rather than one enormous pile of “green”. A roof, a patch of flowers and a stone wall are often easier groups to recognise than colour alone.

When two pieces seem to fit, check the printed detail as well as the shape. A false fit can look convincing until the surrounding section refuses to work. If a physical piece needs force, set it aside.

When the easy details run out

Switch from picture clues to shape clues. Look for an unusual tab, count the sockets and compare the direction of lines across the image. Take a short break when you stop seeing differences. You can leave the sky until last, or try it early while your attention is fresh.

Keeping a finished puzzle

Before using glue, read the product instructions and check compatibility with the puzzle’s finish. Protect your work surface, and remember that gluing is usually permanent. If framing, measure the completed puzzle and check the frame’s usable depth. For reuse, dismantle gently into a few sections before separating the pieces.