A web application for solving puzzles with logic grids: design, user tests, and first experiences in a Logic course

Abstract

Searching for new in-class activities for a Symbolic Logic course, we found a type of puzzle that uses a specially constructed matrix for solving. They were available on websites in English and possibly in other languages, but not in Spanish. Their interactive nature and logical structure make them appropriate for the class although it was clear that Spanish versions of the puzzles would be needed. Puzzle statements presented in websites in English appeared ungenuine or artificial, and often out of context. In this article, we present a description of this type of logic puzzle, the problems found when using them in websites in English, the process followed to design and create a web application for distribution and solving puzzles in Spanish, and the user tests conducted. The prototype presented here includes modifications to the user interface, internal algorithms, and the process to create the enunciates and clues of the puzzle.