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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Crossword

Play Crossword ↗

Game guide · DTJSMODEL

Crossword: a guide for your next round

Try Crossword at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Look at what changes after your first action. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.

Solve 24 connected 15×15 layouts with 11–20 entries each. Use the original English clues and scroll the board on narrow screens; completed layouts may appear again.

Practice beyond the first move

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Your goal

Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.

The order of play

  1. Choose a numbered Across or Down clue to highlight its answer.
  2. Select a square and type a letter, or use the on-screen alphabet.
  3. Shared letters belong to both crossing answers. Selecting a shared square twice changes direction.
  4. Use Check entries to review entered letters. Reveal selected supplies one letter and counts as help.
  5. Complete every open square to solve the puzzle. Dark squares are not filled.

Using the playing area

Select a clue or square. Use your physical keyboard or the on-screen letters, Erase, Check entries and Reveal selected. Scroll within the board on a narrow screen. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

A useful example

For the clue “A shape with three sides”, the answer is TRIANGLE. It occupies 8 squares, and each crossing uses the same letter. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Consider the next action carefully.

A mistake to avoid

Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.

Game-specific help

For my first round, what is the goal of Crossword?

Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues.

Before I begin, how do I control Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: Select a clue or square. Use your physical keyboard or the on-screen letters, Erase, Check entries and Reveal selected. Scroll within the board on a narrow screen.

As a new player, what example helps explain Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: For the clue “An insect with two pairs of broad colourful wings”, the answer is BUTTERFLY. It occupies 9 squares, and each crossing uses the same letter.

Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Crossword?

For clarity: Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue.

On this playing page, what format does Crossword offer?

For clarity: Solve 24 connected 15×15 layouts with 11–20 entries each. Use the original English clues and scroll the board on narrow screens; completed layouts may appear again.

For this browser game, which play mode does Crossword use?

The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

While learning, where should I start with Crossword?

Keep this in mind: Choose a numbered Across or Down clue to highlight its answer.

On this playing page, do I need an account or a payment for Crossword?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

On this playing page, how can I find Crossword again?

Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

While learning, how do I report an issue with Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.

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