How To: Make your own crossword puzzle

Make your own crossword puzzle

Crossword puzzles are great way to exercise you mind and have something fun to do with breakfast. Don't just do a puzzle, but make one yourself. You can do it by hand or try out the help of a crossword building software.

For beginners, there are easy ways to create your first crossword puzzle.

You Will Need

* Internet access
* Paper
* Pen
* Software
* Graph paper (optional)

Step 1: Join crossword constructor online forums for tips

Join crossword constructor online forums or discussion lists for beginner tips from serious hobbyists and professionals.

Step 2: Choose a theme for your crossword puzzle

Choose a central theme to hang your crossword puzzle words and clues on.

Step 3: Brainstorm crosswords and clues from theme

Brainstorm words and clues from your puzzle's theme and write them on paper.

Step 4: Visit a crossword puzzle-maker web site

Using an online crossword puzzle maker, enter the width, height, and number of squares, and then enter the words and clues line by line. Click a button and a puzzle is generated.

Some hobbyists prefer to create a crossword puzzle the old-fashioned way – using graph paper and pen.

Step 5: Buy professional crossword-puzzle-maker software

Buy crossword-puzzle-maker software for professionals or serious hobbyists. This software has a steeper learning curve than the typical online puzzle generator.

In 1913, the first published crossword puzzle was created by English journalist Arthur Wynne for the New York World newspaper.

Just updated your iPhone to iOS 18? You'll find a ton of hot new features for some of your most-used Apple apps. Dive in and see for yourself:

Be the First to Comment

Share Your Thoughts

  • Hot
  • Latest