How To Solve Puzzles

How to Solve Letter Changeup Puzzles

by Chip Brown

To solve a letter changeup puzzle, you modify the letters of word to change it into another word with a different meaning. There are clues describing the two words as well as what sorts of modifications are allowed.

Most puzzles specify modification by removing or changing a single letter. Sometimes you need to anagram (shuffle) or reverse the letters as well.

Here is a typical example:

The answer is HORSE → HOSE:

Here is a more intricate example:

The answer is ALOHA → HOLA:

This puzzle type is inspired by the Flat puzzles of the National Puzzlers’ League.

Hints

If you get stuck, don’t forget you can get hints by tapping on the icon. You have the option to reveal a letter or answer and also to clear out any errors. It’s not cheating to ask for a hint — the goal is to have fun, so if asking for a hint increases your enjoyment, feel free.