THE PLAYBOOK · DJCFW
Getting started with Crossword
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Crossword. Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Look at what changes after your first action. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
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.
Something to practise
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Notice the feedback after each input.
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. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
How a round unfolds
- 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 your actions work
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Learn from a sample situation
For “The planet on which we live” with five squares, enter EARTH. Any crossing answer must use the same letter at the shared square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Notice the change in the playing area.
Keep this in mind
Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Questions about this game
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Crossword?
Keep this in mind: Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues.
Before I begin, how do I control Crossword?
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?
For clarity: 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.
As a new player, what format does Crossword offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
When I return, which play mode does Crossword use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.