Constructing Crosswords: Free-Form

A Digression | Tools | Example

crosspasswordA Digression

  • Free-form --aka vocabulary or criss-cross -- word puzzles are an easy way to get started.
  • Compared to creating a symmetric, newspaper-style crossword, the free-form process is much simpler:
  • Theme: just a list of words; no need for consistency, cleverness or matching lengths
  • Grid: words laid out automatically; symmetry, size and unchecked squares are not an issue.
  • Fill: no extraneous words needed -- only your list is included.
  • Clues: the same process, but you can make clues personalized.
  • Publish: usually for self, family or friends rather than formal publication.

xwTools

  • Some apps can create free-form puzzles -- see Authoring: Applications
  • e.g., Crossword Compiler app example [image: right]
  • You can disable 'normal' rules in some apps, e.g.,
    Crossfire: Grid > Preserve symmetry, Grid > Report Unchecked Squares
  • Many browser-based sites, often education-oriented, are free or low cost.
  • General process/features:
  • Adjust options for size, background; add a title and author.
  • Enter a list of words and clues into a form or import a text file -- answer|clue delimiter may vary
  • Automatically generate a skeleton-like arrangement of your words.
  • webReview, revise word list and/or settings
  • Export resulting free-form puzzle and solution as .pdf, .jpg, .png.
  • Optional: copy/rearrange/reformat grid, clues and/or solution in a document editor; add pictures.
  • Print / publish!
  • 3 free sites:
  • 1. simplest: Discovery Education: PuzzleMaker paste from edited demo.txt
  • 2. format options: Crossword Publisher [image: right]; no import
  • 3. more options: Armored Penguin [image ('Crosspassword'): top right; example below]
  • For other free-form puzzle sites to explore: Authoring: Web

ap OLLIExample: Armored Penguin

  • Add a Title, Author; many options: square size; bkgd: gray; min groups: 1; etc.
  • Enter answers and clues manually --
  • Or, edit/save a local text file; each line contains answer:clue
    Text file name: Choose File (download demo file); Load Puzzle
  • Make Puzzle
  • Revise words, clues, appearance, etc.?
  • Printable PDF (example .pdf; image: right), Answer Key, Online, etc.