Crossword Constructor's Handbook

by Patrick Berry

Formerly known as Crossword Puzzle Challenges for Dummies

“Patrick Berry explains the ins and outs of crossword construction better—and more thoroughly—than anyone else.” – Will Shortz, Crossword Editor, The New York Times

This PDF publication is the definitive how-to guide for would-be puzzle constructors. It describes all aspects of crossword construction in detail: Coming up with a theme, designing and filling the grid, and writing the clues. Also included are 70 crosswords (45 themed puzzles and 25 tough-as-nails themelesses) in both PDF and Across Lite formats.

Genres: Nonfiction

167 pages, ebook

First published March 26, 2004

About the author

Patrick Berry is a crossword and word puzzle constructor. He lives in Athens, Georgia.

Reviews

[Zack Zeller]

This is the real work.

[Patrick]

Good resource! Definitely illuminated several nuances in the xw construction process that I had not noticed or though about before. Excited to give constructing another shot! (whenever I get the mf time again...)

[Two Readers in Love]

Very fun puzzles, but the real bonus of this book for us was Part II, "Constructing Crossword Puzzles Like a Pro." The information here is much better than guides we've found online or in forums. The author shares rules and guidance for developing a puzzle theme, creating a grid, and writing clues all illustrated with clear examples of the pros and cons of different approaches.

We've always enjoyed becoming engrossed in completing a crossword. Thanks to this book, creating crosswords for each other has added a whole new dimension to our shared escape.

[Pita-eater]

As many have already noted, this book has a misleading, highly unfortunate title. It is not about how to solve crossword puzzles. It is in fact a manual for how to create newspaper-worthy crossword puzzles, like those found in the New York Times. Mr. Berry graciously shares his expertise in this a one-of-a-kind guide. Having read it, I am now making my own puzzles quite happily.

[Izzy]

Incredible resource! I was researching everything I could find on crossword puzzle construction and watched several Youtube tutorials, however there were still huge gaps in my knowledge regarding rules and details. I had many questions I couldn’t find the answer to myself, but it was all answered in this book.

Patrick Berry’s an exceptionally clear and to-the-point writer, making this a quick and fun read. Thank you so much for this wonderful work, Patrick!

[Brian Herrick]

Very helpful for constructors.

[Z Makila]

Literally a godsend that I will be returning to often.

[Mike]

The title is completely misleading. Not only is this book totally NOT for dummies, but the text of the book is really about puzzle constructing, not solving. Actually, it's more like two books. In the first book you get 70 great crossword puzzles, of increasing difficulty. I'm up to number 20, and I'd say it's about NYT Wednesday to Thursday difficulty. So, you get at last 40 puzzles above NYT Thursday level, definitely not dummy stuff! The other book is a treatise on crossword puzzle construction, a fascinating read even if all you do is solve puzzles.

[Brent]

This would be the manual on how to create your own crossword puzzles--not the cheesy ones with unsymmetrical grids, but those that newspapers publish. The author, a professional crossword puzzle creator, instructs on how to do it. He writes well, and the instruction is entertaining. 70 new puzzles are included.

[Matt]

Very clear (and helpful) advice about making crosswords, and 70 new crosswords to boot.

[Matt Kelly]

I really good primer of practical advice with examples on crossword puzzle construction.