There’s no denying the New York Times crossword is a highly respected and challenging puzzle game. But for some, solving the NYT crossword puzzle may seem impossible, reserved for only the most brilliant minds. However, you might be surprised to know that with the right tips and tricks, you too can become a crossword master.
Start with the Easy Clues
When you first begin a NYT crossword puzzle, don’t be intimidated by the blank grid staring back at you. Start with the easy clues first, like the ones with short answers or those that you know immediately. This will help you build momentum and give you the confidence to tackle the tougher clues later on.
Read the Clues Carefully
One of the biggest mistakes new crossword solvers make is not reading the clues carefully enough. Every word in the clue is important and can provide you with valuable hints. For example, a clue that says “fruit that’s green on the outside and pink on the inside” is clearly describing a watermelon, not an apple or pear.
Don’t Get Stuck on One Clue
It’s easy to get bogged down by one particularly difficult clue. However, don’t let this discourage you. Instead, move on to a different clue and come back to the tricky one later. Sometimes working on a different section of the grid can help jog your memory and provide you with the answer you were stuck on earlier.
Use Wordplay to Your Advantage
Many crossword clues use wordplay, like puns or double meanings, to help you find the answer. For example, a clue that reads “American city or a type of cloth?” is hinting at the answer “denim” (since it sounds like “Denver” and is a type of cloth).
Know the Common Crossword Words
There are certain words that appear frequently in crossword puzzles, like “aorta”, “aria”, and “epee”. Knowing these words can help you solve clues more quickly and with greater ease, as you’re already familiar with the answer options.
Don’t Be Afraid to Use Google
If you’re really stuck on a clue and can’t seem to make any progress, don’t be afraid to use Google. Simply type in the clue and the number of letters, and you’ll likely find a website or forum with the answer. However, try not to rely on this method too heavily, as it takes away from the satisfaction of solving the puzzle on your own.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like anything, the more you practice solving crossword puzzles, the better you’ll become at it. Don’t be discouraged by early failures or difficulty. Stick with it, use the tips above, and soon enough you’ll be a crossword master.
Conclusion
The NYT crossword puzzle may seem daunting at first, but with the right mindset and tactics, anyone can solve it. Remember to start with the easy clues, read each clue carefully, don’t get stuck on one particular clue, use wordplay to your advantage, know the common crossword words, and don’t be afraid to use Google. With these tips, you’ll be a crossword master in no time.