Skip to content
JIUDINGST

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Crossword

Play Crossword ↗

Game guide · JIUDINGST

How to play Crossword

Start Crossword by looking at the playing area and its controls. Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Check the rule that explains your first action. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

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.

One thing to notice as you play

When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Use the example to check your reasoning.

The objective of a round

Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. The example below illustrates a decision.

From the start of a round

  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.

Getting comfortable with the controls

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. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.

A closer look at one 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.

One detail worth checking

Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.

Questions that come up during play

On this playing page, 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.

On this playing page, how do I control Crossword?

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.

For my first round, what example helps explain Crossword?

Keep this in mind: 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.

As a new player, what should I watch out for in Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue.

As a new player, what format does Crossword offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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?

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.

While learning, where should I start with Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: Choose a numbered Across or Down clue to highlight its answer.

As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Crossword?

The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

Before I begin, how can I find Crossword again?

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

While reading the Guide, 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.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)