How to Play Crossword

Game guide · DAIXIAOLIE

The essentials of playing Crossword

Open Crossword, check the instructions and begin a round. Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.

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

Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Use the example to check your reasoning.

What counts as success

Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.

Start here and follow along

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

How to interact with the game

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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.

Try this example

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. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.

One detail worth checking

Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Questions that come up during play

What is the goal of Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues.

While learning, 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.

What example helps explain Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: For “The planet on which we live” with five squares, enter EARTH. Any crossing answer must use the same letter at the shared square.

For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Crossword?

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

While reading the Guide, what format does Crossword offer?

The key detail is this: 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 a quick reminder, which play mode does Crossword use?

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

For my first round, where should I start with Crossword?

Choose a numbered Across or Down clue to highlight its answer.

Do I need an account or a payment for Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For my first round, how can I find Crossword again?

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

Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Crossword?

The key detail is this: 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.