Large-Print Crossword Maker

How to build a crossword

1. Enter your words and clues. Each line has the answer, then a colon, then the clue: TULIP: Spring bulb popular in Holland. You can also start from a sample.
2. Press Build crossword. The tool tries many layouts and keeps the one that places the most words in the tidiest grid.
3. Not happy with the shape? Press the button again. Every press tries a new arrangement.
4. Tick the answer key box to add a filled-in grid on a separate page, then Print.

What happens to words that cannot be placed?

In a real crossword, every word must cross at least one other word, so each answer needs a letter in common with the rest of the puzzle. When a word has no place to cross, or the grid would grow too large, the tool does not hide the problem. It leaves the word out and lists it in a clear notice above the puzzle, along with a suggestion. Fix it by changing the word, adding another word that shares letters with it, or building again for a different layout. Lines that are skipped, such as missing clues, answers that are too short or duplicates, are also listed.

Writing good clues

• Keep clues short. One line is easiest to read in large print.
• Be friendly. “Instrument with black and white keys” is better than a cryptic puzzle for most groups.
• Draw on shared memories. Songs, foods, places, jobs and holidays your group knows spark conversation.
• Choose words with common letters. Answers that include E, A, R, T, O and S will cross more easily than very unusual spellings.
• Mix word lengths, from 4 to 10 letters. Several long words make a better skeleton for the grid.
• The number in brackets after each clue is the length of the answer; a multi-word answer shows each part, such as (3,5).

Tips for nursing homes, senior centers and classrooms

• Do it together. Read the clues aloud and let the group call out answers. One person can write while others help.
• Use a theme. A seasonal puzzle, local history or a favorite film era works well and makes the clues easier to guess.
• Use Extra large type for clues if reading is a struggle. The grid always fills the page width, so keep puzzles to 8 to 12 words for biggest squares.
• In the classroom, have students write their own clues for the week’s vocabulary, then swap puzzles.
• Save ink by ticking the option that removes the black squares; the puzzle still reads clearly.

Printing tips

• Choose Scale: 100% and turn off Headers and footers.
• The page includes only the title, grid and clues. Menus, ads and buttons are hidden automatically.
• Long clue lists may flow onto a second page. Reduce the clue size or shorten the clues to keep to one.
• The answer key prints on its own page, so you can hand out the puzzle without it.

Frequently asked questions