Skip to content
CCTGJXTHE EVERYDAY PLAY CLUB

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Crossword

Play Crossword ↗

THE PLAYBOOK · CCTGJX

Crossword: what to know before playing

Choose a round of Crossword and settle into its rules. Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Begin with the solo mode shown on the page. Look at what changes after your first action.

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.

A small practice goal

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Keep the objective visible.

Your objective

Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. The example below illustrates a decision.

Step by step

  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.

Making selections and moves

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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

Put the rules into context

For the clue “A shape with three sides”, the answer is TRIANGLE. It occupies 8 squares, and each crossing uses the same letter. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Notice the change in the playing area.

Pay attention to this rule

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. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions

While learning, what is the goal of Crossword?

For clarity: Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues.

For this browser game, how do I control Crossword?

The key detail is this: 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?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.

Before I begin, 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.

Before I begin, what format does Crossword offer?

Keep this in mind: 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.

On this playing page, which play mode does Crossword use?

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

Play More Games (opens in a new tab)