How To Solve Puzzles

How to Solve Logic Crosswords

by Roy Leban

Logic crosswords are very similar to regular crosswords except that there are no numbers in the grid. Instead of numbered clues, you’ll get a single list of clues in alphabetical order. The clues hint at the entry words but it’s up to the solver to determine where they must be placed.

As you first begin solving the clues, you might not know yet where to enter the answers. You can use the boxes next to each clue to keep track of what you’ve figured out. Once you figure out enough of the answer words, you will be able to see how they cross and interlock. As you piece together the words and enter them in the grid, the bits of other unfinished words will help you determine the answers to the rest of the clues. If you cannot figure out enough of the clues to start filling the grid, try using your existing answer words to help answer the other clues. For instance, if you have a word with a low-frequency letter (Q, X, Z, J, etc.), use that knowledge to help you guess what the crossing or overlapping word might be. Keep in mind that every letter in the grid will be used in exactly two words.

The two types of puzzles that use this format are “Fives & Threes” and “Logic Squares.” Keep on reading to see more specific rules and examples for both types.

Fives & Threes

A Fives & Threes puzzle consists of eight clues and a square answer grid. Four of the answers are five letters long and the other four answers are three letters long. Each three-letter answer matches the middle three letters of a five-letter answer. The five-letter answers form a square by connecting the first and last letters.

As an example, the clues below would lead to the resulting grid.

Acts like a hot dog
Buy and buy
Carnival city
Consumed
Did Ebert’s job
Listing on a rap sheet
Lowly farm worker?
It’s mightier than a sword

Of course, the grid can be flipped across the NW/SE diagonal and still result in a valid grid. The solution will be accepted either way you enter the answers.

Logic Squares

A Logic Square puzzle consists of eight clues and a square answer grid. Each answer is four letters long and either fits in the grid as an across answer or as a down answer. It is up to the solver to determine the proper placement of all eight answer words.

As an example, the clues below would lead to the resulting grid.

Beach ball balancer
Black and white treat
Calculation in geometry class
Like skyscrapers
“Keep it ___!”
Knox, for one
Ring, like a bell
Speedy

Again, the grid is valid when inverted and both versions will be accepted as correct solutions. The alternate orientation is shown below.

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.