THE PLAYBOOK · NX12653
A practical guide to 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. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. 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.
A focus for your next round
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Make the next step deliberately.
What the game asks you to do
Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Making your moves
- 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 use 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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Look at the feedback after the action.
Work through an 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. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Consider the next action carefully.
A common point of confusion
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.
Further help with the game
Before I begin, what is the goal of Crossword?
Keep this in mind: 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.
When I return, what example helps explain Crossword?
For the clue “A chart showing days, weeks and months”, the answer is CALENDAR. It occupies 8 squares, and each crossing uses the same letter.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Crossword?
The key detail is this: Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue.
For a quick reminder, 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.
While reading the Guide, which play mode does Crossword use?
The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.