Making a Crossword Puzzle

Instructions

• Step 1:
  Put down the graph paper and walk away slowly. Quality crossword puzzles are rarely eked out in this painfully slow and frustrating manner, at least not by the uninitiated. So, warm up to the idea of using software-based programs to make a crossword puzzle.
• Step 2:
  Consider the scope of the crossword puzzles you want to create. Are you hoping to publish them? Or do you just want to make a crossword puzzles for friends and family to enjoy? This makes a difference in the type and complexity of software to use, not to mention its price.
• Step 3:
  Try a free crossword puzzle maker like Armored Penguin online to get the hang of it (see Resources below). You may store your puzzle on the Armored Penguin's server for up to 2 months. If you're very clever (and proficient in programming), you may be able to design your own database to generate crossword puzzles yourself once you see how it comes together. Or for professional results, you may choose to purchase software designed specifically for crossword puzzle constructionists and publishers.
• Step 4:
  Use heavy-duty software to make different types of crossword puzzles and still go light on your wallet. Crossword Express provides affordable "lite" and pro versions of software that allows you to create all sorts of puzzles, from Acrostic to Sudoku, for Windows and Macintosh (see Resources below.)
• Step 5:
  Meet other crossword puzzle creators and get helpful tips from the Cruciverb-L online forum (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• If you intend to submit your crossword puzzles for publication (such as with a syndication service), then refrain from posting your puzzle on the Internet, even if it's just on your personal page. Doing so may constitute previous publication, and most publishers seek submissions for which they can purchase first or all rights.