1. Read the scene
Every board has rows, columns, named areas, terrain, objects, walls, and windows. Corner brackets consistently mark an object cell where a character can be placed; object cells without brackets are blocked. Decorative details never carry hidden logic.
2. Place one person at a time
Select a person, then select an eligible cell. No two people may occupy the same row or column, but rows and columns may remain empty.
3. Interpret relationships literally
Beside means one cell north, south, east, or west. Named-area boundaries do not stop adjacency: beside can cross into another room or region unless an explicit blocking wall, hedge, or riverbank lies between the cells. Doors, gates, openings, and other non-blocking edges allow it. Diagonal and anywhere-direction clues say so explicitly.
4. Keep notes
Possible and eliminated marks belong to the selected person. They are your notes, not assumptions used by the solver.
5. Ask for the right amount of help
The first hint points to useful evidence. The second states the deduction. The third reveals one placement and explains why.
6. Prove the objective
Once everyone is placed, answer the case question. A completed case includes a step-by-step reconstruction.