How to make a crossword puzzle
- Type your words and clues, one per line, with a dash between the word and its clue. You can also start from a theme and edit it.
- Give it a title, such as “Chapter 4 Vocabulary”.
- Choose the extras. A word bank or letter counts make the puzzle easier for younger students.
- Click Print / Save as PDF. The answer key on page 2 shows the filled grid and each answer beside its clue.
- Don't like the shape? Click New Layout to rearrange the same words into a different grid.
Here is what the word list looks like:
orbit - The curved path a planet takes around the sun comet - An icy space object with a glowing tail gravity - The force that pulls objects toward each other
A colon or a tab between the word and the clue works too. Answers with spaces, like “food chain”, are written in the grid without the space.
Tips for a great classroom crossword
- Aim for 8 to 15 words. That gives a grid big enough to write in, with room for every clue on one page.
- Mix long and short words. Long words give the puzzle a backbone, and short words fill in the gaps.
- Write clues students can answer. Use the definitions from your lesson, or describe the word in a sentence with a blank.
- Use it for review. A crossword of unit vocabulary is a quick check of spelling and meaning before a test.
- Make it easier or harder. Add a word bank for younger students or English language learners; leave it off for a challenge.
Frequently asked questions
Is the crossword puzzle maker free?
Yes. You can make, print and save as many crossword puzzles as you like, with answer keys, without an account.
How do I enter my words and clues?
Put one word per line, then a dash and the clue, for example: orbit - The path a planet takes around the sun. A colon or a tab between the word and the clue also works.
How many words can a crossword have?
Up to 25 words. Between 8 and 15 words usually makes the best one-page puzzle, with a grid big enough to write in and room for all the clues.
Why didn't all of my words fit in the crossword?
Every word has to cross another word on a shared letter. A word with uncommon letters, such as one with a Q or Z, may have nowhere to connect. Click New Layout to try again, or add a few words that share its letters.
Can I make the crossword easier?
Yes. Tick Show word bank to list all the answers at the bottom of the page, and tick Show letter counts to add the number of letters after each clue.
Can I get the exact same crossword again later?
Yes. The page link updates to include your words, clues and puzzle code. Bookmark or share it to rebuild the identical crossword and answer key.
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