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How to Solve Crossword Puzzles. Crossword puzzles can help build your mind and improve
self-control, language skills, and confidence. You will need A crossword puzzle and a pencil.
Step 1. Solve the easy clues first, starting with number one and moving “across.” Step
2. Begin with number one in the “down” category and answer all you can in the first
pass. Step 3. Progressing from the puzzle's top left, fill in words that intersect with
already completed answers. Words that contain a lot of vowels are used frequently in crossword
puzzles. Step 4. Take a break periodically. If you try too hard, the obvious can seem
unintelligible. When you return to the puzzle, note how quickly some answers occur to you.
Step 5. Check for anagrams in clues. Anagrams show up through descriptive terms or names
that must be rearranged to divine the intended answer. Step 6. Use words associated with
the title of the puzzle. Work with a friend – sometimes two heads are better than one
when solving a crossword puzzle. Step 7. Continue filling in answers, moving left to right and
top to bottom. Step 8. Practice crosswords to get better. The more puzzles you do, the
more familiar you'll be with standard puzzle clues and answers. Did you know People who
work on crossword puzzles more than four times a week may be less likely to get Alzheimer’s
disease.