Ever Tried a Cryptic Crossword Puzzle?
Two years ago, I started solving cryptic crossword puzzles.
In no time, I was hooked. Before I learned how to do them, cryptic crosswords (or “cryptics” for short) seemed strange and impenetrable. I would read the clues and come away thinking “what the what?!” But once I learned how to solve them, a whole world of clever word play opened up to me. Why are cryptics so appealing?
In cryptic crossword puzzles every clue is a miniature code waiting to be cracked. And unlike regular crosswords, you don't need any special trivia knowledge to figure it out.
A clue that reads "Jack had an ice house in Mexico" isn't about Jack at all. And it certainly isn't about an ice house. You don't need to know anything about Mexican geography, either. Imbedded in the clue are code words that reveal what the clue is actually about and how to solve it. Want to learn?
Cryptics aren't hard to learn; you just need someone to show you how they work.
That's where I come in. I've written a little tutorial that will have you solving your own puzzles in no time, including three practice puzzles with as many hints as you care to read. What do you think? Want to give it a whirl? I am so ready! Take me to the cryptic crossword tutorial! I'm already a fan. Show me tips to make solving puzzles easier. I already know how to do them. Take me to the practice puzzles! |
