Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies
2. Edition July 2022
208 Pages, Softcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
The cryptic crossword world explained the fun and easy way
Even expert crossword-solvers struggle with cryptics. The clues can often seem nonsensical, mysterious and infuriating, but finally cracking them is immensely satisfying. Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies is designed to help even the most casual crossword lover master these mental feats of gymnastics. Packed with clear explanations, helpful hints, and practice crosswords, the book explains how to approach these problems in a clear and logical manner, providing hints on identifying the different kinds of clues and tips on how to solve them.
* Explains cryptic crosswords, from the (relatively) simple to advanced puzzles
* Guides readers through common and not-so-common clues to help decipher even the most confusing cryptics
* Illustrates the top tips, tricks, and clues to cracking any cryptic
* Includes practice puzzles to put your new skills to the test
* Covers both Commonwealth and U.S. style cryptics and highlights the subtle differences between each
Cryptic crosswords have emerged as one of today's most popular brainteasers, and Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies is the one-stop resource for becoming a puzzle pro.
Part 1: Diving Into the World of Cryptic Crosswords 5
Chapter 1: Introducing Cryptic Crosswords 7
Chapter 2: Untangling Anagrams 23
Chapter 3: Charade Clues: Piecing Together Linked Words 33
Chapter 4: Putting Words Inside Words 45
Chapter 5: Using Subtraction 53
Chapter 6: Examining Reversals 61
Chapter 7: Decoding Homophones 69
Chapter 8: Interpreting Double Definitions 79
Chapter 9: Revealing Hidden Words 89
Chapter 10: Letter Gathering: Abbreviations and Other Oddments 97
Chapter 11: Enjoying Cryptics Around the Globe 111
Part 2: Sample Cryptic Crosswords 119
Chapter 12: Easy Peasy Cryptics 121
Chapter 13: Challenging Cryptics 139
Chapter 14: Treacherous Cryptics 149
Part 3: Hints and Answers 159
Chapter 15: Hints 161
Chapter 16: Answers 167
Part 4: The Part of Tens 173
Chapter 17: Ten Tips for Being a Better Solver 175
Chapter 18: Ten (Plus Two!) Puzzling Resources 181
Appendix: Word Lists 187