Any clue-based word puzzle, such as a crossword, can present big challenges to even the most experienced puzzle-solver among us. As a long-time puzzle writer, I'd like to share a few tips from the inside.
1. Multiple meaning words
Just one simple word can have a myriad of meanings. Fair can mean 1) pleasing to the eye or mind--a fair maiden 2) not stormy--fair weather 3) impartial--a fair judge 4) not dark--a fair complexion 5) sufficient but not ample--a fair amount of food in the fridge 6) a gathering of buys and sellers--an antique fair 7) a carnival--the county fair 8) a batted baseball within the foul lines--a fair ball, and many more.
So when you encounter a difficult crossword clue, consider that the answer may be a word you already know but with a meaning that is uncommon. Can you guess a single answer for these clues? Hint: It has 7 letters.
Clue: a long, relatively narrow room, esp. one for public use; an ornamental railing or cresting surrounding the top of a table, stand, desk, etc.; a passageway made by an animal. (Read on for the answer...)
2. Spelling
Double-check the spelling of tricky words. Suppose the clue is humiliate, for example. You decide the answer is embarrass. But the puzzle requires a 9-letter answer, and so you start racking your brain for a different word. A quick check of the dictionary or spell check will tell you that embarrass does indeed have 9 letters!
3. Consult a reference book
If you get really stuck, look up words and definitions in a dictionary, crossword puzzle dictionary, thesaurus, almanac or any of a zillion online resources. Some puzzlers think this is "cheating," but if you peak at the answer key instead, what do you call that? Using a reference book in itself is an educational exercise. And it's not always easy to know where to look, so it does take brains to do the research.
4. Take a break
When a puzzle completely befuddles you, walk away. Move on to a different, easier puzzle, feed the dog, or go for a walk. A relaxed brain often finds answers more easily than one that has been strained for a long period of time.
5. Keep at it
Don't quit! The more word puzzles you solve the more you can solve. You'll increase your vocabulary and learn the tricks that various puzzle writers employ. If you find a particular puzzle format you really like, solve a lot of them. But also try new formats. Research has shown that brain health is improved when we try new things.
1. Multiple meaning words
Just one simple word can have a myriad of meanings. Fair can mean 1) pleasing to the eye or mind--a fair maiden 2) not stormy--fair weather 3) impartial--a fair judge 4) not dark--a fair complexion 5) sufficient but not ample--a fair amount of food in the fridge 6) a gathering of buys and sellers--an antique fair 7) a carnival--the county fair 8) a batted baseball within the foul lines--a fair ball, and many more.
So when you encounter a difficult crossword clue, consider that the answer may be a word you already know but with a meaning that is uncommon. Can you guess a single answer for these clues? Hint: It has 7 letters.
Clue: a long, relatively narrow room, esp. one for public use; an ornamental railing or cresting surrounding the top of a table, stand, desk, etc.; a passageway made by an animal. (Read on for the answer...)
2. Spelling
Double-check the spelling of tricky words. Suppose the clue is humiliate, for example. You decide the answer is embarrass. But the puzzle requires a 9-letter answer, and so you start racking your brain for a different word. A quick check of the dictionary or spell check will tell you that embarrass does indeed have 9 letters!
3. Consult a reference book
If you get really stuck, look up words and definitions in a dictionary, crossword puzzle dictionary, thesaurus, almanac or any of a zillion online resources. Some puzzlers think this is "cheating," but if you peak at the answer key instead, what do you call that? Using a reference book in itself is an educational exercise. And it's not always easy to know where to look, so it does take brains to do the research.
4. Take a break
When a puzzle completely befuddles you, walk away. Move on to a different, easier puzzle, feed the dog, or go for a walk. A relaxed brain often finds answers more easily than one that has been strained for a long period of time.
5. Keep at it
Don't quit! The more word puzzles you solve the more you can solve. You'll increase your vocabulary and learn the tricks that various puzzle writers employ. If you find a particular puzzle format you really like, solve a lot of them. But also try new formats. Research has shown that brain health is improved when we try new things.
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