Guide

How to Solve a Cryptic Crossword

Every cryptic clue has two parts: a straight definition and a wordplay section. Once you know the six clue types below, you can crack any clue.

  1. Anagram

    Letters rearranged to form the answer.

    Indicator: Words like: mixed, scrambled, wild, confused

    Scrambled eggs (4) → LEGS

  2. Reversal

    The answer is a word written backwards.

    Indicator: Words like: back, returning, over, reflected

    Returning hero (4) → OREH

  3. Hidden word

    The answer is concealed inside the clue text.

    Indicator: Words like: in, within, part of, some

    Some crANE Stalks (4) → NEST

  4. Double definition

    Two separate definitions clue the same word.

    Indicator: (no indicator — two definitions appear side by side)

    Bank turn (4) → BEND

  5. Charade

    The answer is built from consecutive word parts.

    Indicator: Sequential wordplay: 'before', 'after', 'then'

    Cat followed by log (7) → CATALOG

  6. Container

    One word is placed inside another.

    Indicator: Words like: in, inside, around, holding

    Ace held inside race (4) → RACE