Tips & guides
Tips, guides, and insights about crosswords and word games.
Finished today's Connections and want more? Here are 8 word puzzle games that hit the same satisfying sweet spot — including one that never resets.
June 25, 2026
Making a crossword puzzle with an answer key used to mean twice the work. Here's how to generate both at once — free, in under a minute.
June 18, 2026
Want a crossword you can actually hold? Make a free printable crossword on any topic in under two minutes — no clue writing, no manual grid layout.
June 15, 2026
Custom crossword puzzles are more satisfying when you choose the topic. Make one in under a minute — free, on your phone, no manual clue writing required.
June 11, 2026
NYT Pips is the newest addition to the NYT Games lineup. Here's what it is, how it fits alongside Wordle and Connections, and the best free word puzzle games to play alongside it.
June 8, 2026
Crosswords build vocabulary and keep kids engaged. Here's how to pick the right topics by age — and make a custom puzzle in under a minute.
June 4, 2026
Love word puzzles?
Generate crosswords on any topic in the app.
A wedding crossword makes guests talk, laugh, and learn the couple's story. Here's how to make one free, on your phone, in under two minutes.
June 1, 2026
The NYT Mini takes 90 seconds. Then what? Five quick crossword alternatives for when one mini puzzle isn't enough.
May 30, 2026
Finished today's Wordle in 3 tries and need more? Here are 12 word puzzle games worth playing -- from crosswords to spelling bees to obscure gems.
May 29, 2026
Looking for your next daily crossword fix beyond the NYT? These 7 free apps serve fresh puzzles every day -- plus one that lets you make your own.
May 28, 2026
Crossword Labs and AI Crossword Maker both let you build free puzzles. Here's how they differ -- and which one is faster for most people.
Love the NYT Mini? Here's how to make your own mini crossword puzzle on any topic -- free, in under 60 seconds, with AI-generated clues.
May 14, 2026