Crossword puzzles exercise the brain the same way a workout affects our muscles. They help keep our minds healthy.
Regularly solving puzzles can improve your memory, quality of thinking, and focus. It can even delay the onset of dementia since it keeps your brain sharp.
The best thing about puzzles is it’s fun to do. Keep reading to learn how to do crossword puzzles more effectively.
1. Use a Pencil
The first of our crossword tips is using the proper tool. A pencil is the best tool for both beginners and experts alike since it allows mistakes.
You have a better chance to guess the answers. Use light strokes to erase your guess whenever necessary.
2. Check the Tense
Pay attention to the tense of the clue. If the clue is in the past tense, you can safely assume the answer is in the same tense.
3. Check for Plural Form and Abbreviations
Check for indirect abbreviations. If it is a part of the clue, chances are the answer is using the same form.
Look for clues using the plural form. The answer must be plural, so adding an S in the last box might lead to the correct answer.
4. Learn to Walk Away
Are you struggling for an answer? Take a break and walk away from the puzzle. You need not finish it in one sitting.
Doing something else will clear your mind. Often, the answer will come when your mind is clear. Never let the puzzle frustrate you since the objective is to have fun.
5. Start With the Shorter Words
Look at the 3-, 4-, and 5-letter words first. Puzzles often reuse words in these lengths, making them easier to guess for crossword games enthusiasts.
As you keep solving puzzles, you become more familiar with the usual words. Filling these early on will give you more clues for the rest of the grid. If you’re looking for the best crossword puzzles, see more here.
6. Skip the Harder Ones
Even the crossword puzzles for beginners can have challenging clues. If you come across one, skip it for now. Move on to the shorter and easier words.
Doing this tactic allows you to bulk up the puzzle. Come back to the ones requiring more thinking when you have more letters on the grid.
7. Don’t Hesitate to Get Help
It’s not cheating when you ask for assistance to learn how to do crossword puzzles right. After all, one of their purposes is learning new words and concepts.
You can bond with your family and friends with this method. You can also consult the internet or dictionary. Either way, you walk with new pieces of knowledge.
Learn How to Do Crossword Puzzles
Crossword puzzles keep you occupied while sharpening your mind. Now you know how to do crossword puzzles, your experience becomes more enjoyable. What’s important is having fun while learning something new.
Is this guide helpful? If so, consider reading our other posts to learn more valuable tips and tricks today.
