

The important thing about clues is that they must be interesting and as original as possible. X Research source There is a little more space for creativity in theme crosswords, which carry a theme throughout the whole range of clues, such as focusing on animals, circus life, a day at the beach, etc. Every word used in the crossword must be referenced by using standard dictionaries, atlases, or encyclopedias or other trusted print sources. The style of the clues will depend on the type of crossword, such as whether it's straightforward or cryptic, easy or challenging, and you'll need to be across each type of clue presentation. Keep practicing because this is a skill that requires lots of practice, and much of your learning will occur by error.Make adjustments to the crossword puzzle as needed as you go, keeping the symmetry in place. Once you've added the words on your list, return and fill in the rest of the spaces as appropriate using appropriate words and phrases, and appropriate black squares.Sam Bellotto recommends that having around one sixth black squares is appropriate. Keep in mind the symmetry of black squares and be aware that some publishers limit the amount of black squares that can be used in a crossword puzzle. Add black squares that cover the words already added.If you find any problems, such as the creation of 2 letter words, etc., then continue rearranging until words fit more appropriately. Start placing your theme or listed words on the grid to see how they fit in. Words are placed horizontally and vertically.Be fully aware that it usually takes several hours to produce a quality crossword puzzle, so allow yourself a good space of time for each practice session. Start by deciding a theme or idea for your crossword puzzle and preparing a list of all the relevant theme words you think would be appropriate for it. In doing so, select one of the grid sizes suggested above, bearing in mind that the most commonly purchased crosswords for newspapers and magazines will be 15x15 grids.
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Print off a number of blank grids (you can either make your own on a program like Word or look for free grids online) to practice adding words to. Don't use words more than once in the same crossword.Interlock every letter square as part of both an Across and a Down word letters that are not interlocked are forbidden.Three letter words should be used sparingly as they're not particularly challenging. Do not use two-letter words as they're not permitted.Look at existing crossword puzzles to see what is achieved by current crossword generators. Horizontal symmetry is usually not accepted. Diagonal symmetry is required for the black squares – for example, black squares in one top corner must reflect black squares in the bottom diagonal corner.Note that some publications will accept 13x13 but the standard size is considered to be 15x15, so get comfortable with that one first.For crossword puzzles in the United States, the rules are based on Simon and Schuster, and some of the basics are as follows: X Research source The rules behind the creation of crosswords will inform your methodology and word usage.

These help to temper your enthusiasm to add words willy nilly to a puzzle without aesthetic or challenging effect.
