Crossword puzzles are a very enjoyable pursuit, testing our vocabulary and knowledge at every turn, and providing an immensely rewarding and satisfying experience; that is, on those rare puzzles where the answers seem to flow from us like water from a tap. The rest of the time, crosswords can be infuriating with esoteric clues that would stump even a grand master of random knowledge.

Thankfully, we’re here to keep your hair firmly in your head, with 5 tips for crossword solvers that should help you navigate your way through the most challenging sections of any and all crosswords, whether it be a puzzle as innocent as the TV Guide puzzle, or as harrowing as The New York Times crossword.

Start Simple – Before tackling said NYT puzzle, build up your knowledge and skill at playing crosswords on smaller and less challenging puzzles. Not only will you learn techniques for getting through questions and areas you’re having trouble with, but you’ll slowly be increasing your knowledge as well. You’ll find that clues get repeated throughout puzzles, so every puzzle you get through increases your chances of finishing another one down the road.
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