Crossword clue types every solver should know
From abbreviations to question marks: what each clue convention means.
- Clue conventions tell you the answer's form before you know the word.
- A question mark means wordplay; an abbreviation in the clue means an abbreviation in the answer.
- Fill-in-the-blank clues are the fastest entry point to any grid.
- Tense, number and part of speech always match between clue and answer.
Crossword clues follow conventions that stay the same from the NYT Mini to the Saturday Stumper. Once you know them, a clue tells you the answer's length, form and tone before you have a single letter. Here are the types that come up every day.
Fill in the blank
"___ Today" or "Photo ___". These are the easiest clues in any grid and the best place to start. The missing word is usually a common phrase partner, and the length tells you which one.
Abbreviations
If a clue includes "Abbr.", "for short", or is itself abbreviated ("Dr.'s org."), the answer is abbreviated too. AMA, NBA and ETA are regulars.
Question marks
A clue ending in "?" is wordplay. "Good heart?" might be about the word HEART, not the organ. Read it literally, then sideways, and expect a pun.
Quoted phrases
Clues in quotation marks have spoken answers: "Ohhh, I see now!" clues an exclamation like AHA or ISEE. Match the tone of the quote.
Tense, number and part of speech
A past-tense clue has a past-tense answer, a plural clue a plural answer, and a noun clue a noun answer. "Took to court" means SUED, not SUE. This is the single most useful rule for confirming an uncertain entry.
Cross-references
"20-Across of some toddlers" points at another entry. Solve the referenced answer first; the clue is unreadable without it.
Slang and pop culture
Modern crosswords, especially the Mini, Midi and USA Today, use recent slang, film quotes and brand names. If a clue feels oddly casual, the answer probably is too.
Put these to work on today's NYT Crossword, where every clue has its own page with hints and the answer.
FAQ
What does a question mark mean in a crossword clue?+
The clue is a pun or misdirection. Read it literally, then look for a second meaning.
What does "Abbr." mean?+
The answer is an abbreviation. Clues that are themselves abbreviated work the same way.
How do I know if the answer is plural?+
If the clue is plural, so is the answer, usually ending in S.
What is a cross-reference clue?+
A clue that refers to another entry, such as "See 17-Across". Solve the referenced entry first.
