Cryptic Crosswords for Beginners
Never solved a cryptic crossword? Don't worry — everyone starts somewhere. This guide will get you from “I don't understand anything” to “I just cracked my first clue!”
The Golden Rule
Every cryptic clue has two parts: a definition and wordplay. Both lead to the same answer.
Your First Clue
“Flower holder? (5)”
The question mark is a hint!
Step 1: Find the definition. “Holder” could be the definition — something that holds things. But wait...
Step 2: Check the wordplay. “Flower” — in cryptic land, this doesn't mean a rose. It means “something that flows” — a RIVER!
Step 3: Verify. RIVER (5 letters) ✓. A river “flows” (flower) and “holds” water (holder). Both parts check out!
The 7 Wordplay Types
Every cryptic clue uses one or more of these techniques:
Anagram
Letters rearranged
Look for "crazy", "wild"
Hidden Word
Answer in the clue text
Look for "in", "part of"
Container
Word inside another
Look for "around", "holding"
Reversal
Spelled backwards
Look for "back", "returned"
Double Definition
Two definitions
Usually very short clues
Cryptic Definition
Punning definition
Question mark is common
Charade
Words chained together
Look for "and", "with"
Top Tips for Beginners
- 1.Start with the easiest clues — short ones (3-5 letters) are often simpler.
- 2.Look for the definition first. It's usually at the start or end of the clue.
- 3.Don't read the clue as a normal sentence — look for the hidden trick.
- 4.Count the letters in brackets — that's your answer length.
- 5.Use our free solver to check your guesses and learn the patterns.