Cryptic crosswords are a unique breed of puzzles that challenge your mind in ways regular crosswords simply don’t. Whether you are a seasoned cryptic crossword enthusiast or a curious beginner, the Globe and Mail’s cryptic crossword provides a delightful but occasionally perplexing experience. Unlike traditional crosswords that rely mostly on straightforward definitions, cryptic crosswords incorporate intricate wordplay, requiring solvers to think outside the box. If you’re looking to elevate your crossword-solving skills, this guide will walk you through the key strategies and tips for cracking the Globe and Mail’s cryptic crossword.
Understanding the Structure of Cryptic Clues
One cryptic of the most challenging aspects of cryptic crosswords is understanding the structure of the clues. Unlike a traditional crossword clue, which is usually just a direct definition, cryptic clues are made up of two parts: a definition and a wordplay element. To decode these clues effectively, it’s essential to learn how to recognize both components.
The first part of the clue is the definition, which is similar to the standard clue in a regular crossword. It might refer to the solution directly or provide a more indirect hint. The second part is the wordplay, which often involves using anagrams, homophones, hidden words, or reversals to lead you to the answer. Understanding the different types of wordplay will give you the tools needed to solve even the most tricky clues.
Common clue types in cryptic crosswords include:
- Anagrams: These clues suggest that the solution is formed by rearranging the letters of another word or phrase. For example, “A rage” might clue the answer “agree,” as “a rage” is an anagram of “agree.”
- Double Definitions: In this clue type, two different definitions lead to the same answer. For example, “car” and “jag” could both define “Jaguar.”
- Homophones: These clues point to answers that sound like other words. For example, “flower sound” could clue “flour.”
- Hidden Words: The answer is hidden within the letters of other words in the clue. For example, “the final look inside the box” could contain “look” as the hidden word.
Once you start familiarizing yourself with these various types of clues, solving cryptic crosswords becomes more manageable and fun.
Tips and Strategies for Solving the Globe and Mail Cryptic Crossword
While cryptic crosswords can appear intimidating at first, they become much easier to tackle with the right strategies. Here are a few tips to help you get started and increase your success rate:
Start with the Easier Clues
When you first approach a cryptic crossword, avoid diving straight into the most difficult clues. Instead, start with the ones that seem more straightforward. These often provide simpler definitions or have clear wordplay elements. By solving these easier clues, you’ll gain momentum and start filling in letters that will help you with the more complex ones.
Look for the Length of the Answer
Clue lengths are an essential part of solving cryptic crosswords. The length of the answer is often provided in parentheses after the clue. This helps you determine if the word you’re thinking of fits the puzzle’s grid. For instance, a clue like “place for books (5)” might lead you to the answer “shelf,” especially when you know the length of the word helps narrow down possibilities.
Use Pencil and Stay Flexible
Cryptic crosswords are all about trial and error. You may guess an answer, only to realize later that it doesn’t fit. It’s crucial to stay flexible and not commit to an answer too quickly. Using a pencil when solving allows you to erase your guesses easily, making it simpler to change your approach as you go along.
Pay Attention to Indicators
Each type of wordplay in a cryptic clue has certain “indicators”—words or phrases that signal which type of clue you’re dealing with. For example, words like “mixed” or “scrambled” suggest an anagram, while words like “say” often indicate a homophone. Developing an eye for these indicators can speed up your solving process.
Build Your Vocabulary
Having a strong vocabulary will serve you well when solving cryptic crosswords. While you don’t need to know every word in existence, becoming familiar with common crossword abbreviations, foreign phrases, and unusual words used in cryptic puzzles will increase your efficiency. You can expand your vocabulary by solving more crosswords and referencing crossword clue dictionaries.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced solvers can fall into traps when solving cryptic crosswords. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:
Misinterpreting Definitions
One of the most common mistakes in cryptic crosswords is misinterpreting the definition part of the clue. Since cryptic crossword definitions are often indirect or oblique, it’s important to read each clue carefully. Don’t assume that the definition will always be at the beginning or end of the clue—it can appear anywhere. Also, remember that cryptic clues can sometimes be very subtle in their definitions, requiring you to think creatively about the meanings of words.
Overthinking Simple Clues
Cryptic crosswords can sometimes make you overthink clues that are actually quite simple. If you’re stuck on a clue, take a step back and reassess. Often, the simplest solution is the right one. For example, a clue that seems complicated might just involve a straightforward definition or a very basic anagram.
Forgetting to Consider Alternative Spellings
Sometimes, the crossword answer may require you to use an alternate spelling. This is especially true when dealing with British-style cryptic crosswords like the Globe and Mail’s. For instance, a clue for “colour” might require the British spelling “colour” rather than the American “color.” Paying attention to these details will help prevent mistakes.
Ignoring Cross-Checking
Cryptic crosswords are puzzles that rely heavily on cross-checking. You should always check your answers against intersecting words. If a word doesn’t seem to fit, it’s worth revisiting the clue or rethinking your guess. Cross-checking ensures that your answers are correct and helps catch any mistakes early.
Leveraging Resources to Enhance Your Crossword Skills
There are plenty of resources available to help you hone your cryptic crossword-solving skills. Here are some top recommendations:
Tools and Apps
Several crossword apps allow you to practice cryptic crosswords on your mobile device. Apps like “Cryptic Crossword Free” or “Puzzazz” provide interactive features that help guide you through puzzles and offer hints when needed.
Books and Guides
Books such as “The Ultimate Cryptic Crosswords” by John S. Nimmo and “How to Solve Cryptic Crosswords” by Alan D. Williams are excellent resources for learning cryptic clue-solving techniques. These guides offer step-by-step instructions, examples, and tips to help you improve.
Online Communities
The internet is home to several forums and communities dedicated to cryptic crossword solvers. Joining platforms like Reddit’s r/crossword or participating in discussions on crossword websites can help you get tips, insights, and solve challenges with fellow enthusiasts.
Practice Crosswords
The best way to get better at solving cryptic crosswords is to practice consistently. Make it a habit to solve the Globe and Mail’s cryptic crossword every day. With each puzzle, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the clues and improve your problem-solving skills.
Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect
While solving the Globe and Mail’s cryptic crossword may seem daunting at first, with practice and the right strategies, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding challenge. The key to success is to start slow, pay attention to clue structures, and use all available resources to enhance your solving ability. Over time, you’ll find yourself solving increasingly difficult puzzles with confidence. Enjoy the process, celebrate small victories, and remember that solving a cryptic crossword is a journey of continual learning and fun!
