How to Do Cryptic Crosswords

Understanding the Unique Structure of Cryptic Crosswords

Invented in Britain, Cryptic Crosswords have thrived across the world ever since they made their way across the seas thanks to the distinctive structure and the difference in clues as compared to the classic crossword. Each clue, in a cryptic crossword has two parts; the straightforward answer and a cryptic element which is key to solving the whole puzzle.

Essentially, the definition, either at the start or the end, describes the answer while the cryptic part is where the constructor attempts to confuse the solver. They do this with the help of various wordplay techniques to misdirect the solver, forcing them to think outside the box to get their answer. This two-layered structure makes cryptic crosswords both stimulating and far more engaging as compared to a classic crossword even if they are slightly more challenging.

Breaking Down Cryptic Clues: Definitions and Wordplay

Cryptic crossword clues can be broken down into two sections; a definition and wordplay that the constructor uses to confuse and misdirect the solver. The definition is a straightforward description of the answer and usually appears at the start or the end of the clue. That is almost always the case which makes things easier for players because the second section is often tough to solve.

The wordplay element is where the constructor tries their very best to not just prevent the solver from figuring out the right answer but also misdirect them to the wrong one. They do this with the help of hidden words, anagrams, homophones, and other language tools. However, there are indicator words to help make the solver’s job slightly easier such as "mixed" for anagrams or "we hear" for homophones.

Common Cryptic Crossword Clue Types Explained

Cryptic crosswords have different ways to challenge and confuse solvers although a large portion of that happens in the clues section. That’s because constructors of cryptic crosswords use the clues to misdirect and challenge a player with the help of various language tools. Here are a few such tools and examples of how they’re used by constructors;

Anagrams: Some cryptic crosswords use anagrams and are often indicated by words like “mixed” or “confused”. An example of this is "Ms Reagan is upset by the executives (8)" leads to "managers".

Double definitions: These are words that have two definitions like “Bolt (run or metal fastener), Spring (season or source of water), and more.

Hidden words: These types of clues often conceal the answer within the clue itself making it tougher for a solver to find. An example is “Confront them in the tobacco store (6)” which leads to Accost.

Homophones: These are used often and rather well by most constructors especially as Homophones are words that sound alike but have different meanings. An example is "Small drink sounds like a flower" which clues in “Rose”.

Charade clues: These clues are found by stringing words together to find the eventual solution and each clue contributes to the final answer. An example is "Small insect found on mountain" which leads to “ant-hill”.

Container clues: A more complicated language tool, these clues often involve placing one word or a set of letters inside another in order to create the answer. An example is "Flower holding a note" which clues in "pansy".

Tips and Tricks for Mastering Cryptic Crosswords

As cryptic crosswords challenge solvers well beyond the levels that a classic crossword does, it takes time and practice for players to get used to them. Thus every newcomer needs a few tips and tricks to help them start while they understand the structure and format of cryptic crosswords. Here are a few tricks and tips to help one conquer a cryptic crossword;

Read clues both literally and figuratively to better spot wordplay indicators

• Learn and familiarize yourself with common clue types to make things easier in the long run.

• Focus on the definition first and then tackle the wordplay.

• Crossing letters will help narrow down the list of potential answers

• Pay close attention to plurals, tenses, and parts of speech in clues to better discover the wordplay in use.

• Use a cryptic crossword dictionary when you’re first starting out as a reference tool

• Remember that constructors aim for fairness and thus each clue will have a logical solution even if they try to misdirect you.