Here are some tips on how to solve cryptic crosswords:
- Start with the easy clues. There are usually a few clues that are easier to solve than the others. These can be helpful for getting started and building up your confidence.
- Look for the definition. The definition is the part of the clue that tells you what the answer is. It is usually the first part of the clue, but it can be anywhere.
- Look for the wordplay. The wordplay is the part of the clue that gives you a hint about how to arrive at the answer. It can be a pun, a homophone, an anagram, or some other type of wordplay.
- Use your knowledge of the English language. A good knowledge of the English language will be essential for solving cryptic crosswords. You need to be able to understand the different types of wordplay and how they work.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you get stuck on a clue, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or online forum. There are also many books and websites that can help you learn how to solve cryptic crosswords.
Here are some additional tips that you may find helpful:
- Pay attention to the length of the answer. The answer to a cryptic clue will usually be the same length as the number of words in the clue.
- Look for repeated letters or phrases. These can be clues to the wordplay.
- Use a dictionary or thesaurus to look up words that you don’t know. This can help you understand the definition and the wordplay.
- Be patient and persistent. Solving cryptic crosswords takes time and practice. Don’t give up if you get stuck on a clue.
Types of Cryptic Clue
Cryptic crossword clues come in various types, and each type employs different wordplay techniques to lead the solver to the answer. Here are some common types of cryptic crossword clues:
Double Definitions:
Double definition clues are a type of cryptic crossword clue that provides two distinct meanings for the same word. In these clues, the solver must identify a single word that fits both definitions. Double definition clues are generally straightforward, with no wordplay involved beyond the challenge of discerning the word that satisfies both meanings.
Anagrams:
Anagram-style cryptic crossword clues involve rearranging the letters of a set of words or phrases to form the answer. This type of clue relies on an indicator that signals the need for an anagram, and solvers must be adept at recognizing anagram indicators and manipulating the letters accordingly.
Common indicators include:
- mixed
- shuffled
- jumbled
- drunk
- confused
- In disarray
- in a muddle
- rearranged
Hidden Words:
Hidden word clues are a type of cryptic crossword clue where the solution is hidden within the letters of the clue itself. The solver needs to identify a concealed word or phrase within the given set of letters. The answer will often span across multiple words. Hidden word clues often include indicator words or phrases that suggest the presence of a hidden element.
Common indicators include:
- in
- within
- held by
- concealing
Because the solution is hidden in plain sight, the setter will often try to misdirect you with a tricky definition or by using it in conjunction with another indicator. Combining a hidden word with a reversal indicator is a common ploy, so you will need to look for the solution printed backwards within the clue.
Reversals:
Reversal indicators in cryptic crossword clues suggest that the letters of a word or phrase should be read in the opposite direction to derive the answer. These indicators typically signal a reversal or backward movement and add an element of wordplay to the clue.
Common indicators include:
- back
- returned
- up (for down clues)
- Overturned
- Retreated
Container/Contents:
Container-style clues in cryptic crosswords involve one word or phrase “containing” or “holding” another word or phrase, indicating that the answer is formed by placing one word inside another. These clues add a layer of complexity by requiring solvers to identify the specific containment relationship between the words.
Common indicators include:
- in
- inside
- within
- holds
- surrounding
Homophones:
Homophone-style clues in cryptic crosswords rely on words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings. These clues play on the auditory similarity between words, challenging the solver to identify a word that, when spoken, sounds like another word with a different meaning.
Common indicators include:
- heard
- audibly
- say
- broadcast
- sounds like
Letter Selection or Deletion
Letter selection or deletion clues are types of cryptic crossword clues that involve either choosing specific letters from a word or removing certain letters to derive the answer. These clues add an extra layer of complexity and require the solver to carefully manipulate the letters in the clue to find the solution.
Solving Cryptic Puzzles
Being familiar with the types of indicators to look out for will get you closer to cracking cryptics, but remember that harder puzzles will combine several of these methods in each clue, often using less straightforward indicators and adding elements of misdirection to keep you guessing! Trying to solve cryptic crosswords can often be a frustrating experience, but with regular practice you’ll start to get a feel for how the clues are put together and the common conventions that are used.
Be sure to check out our full range of solving aids to give yourself the tools to succeed!