Skip to content
371HOTEL

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Crossword

Play Crossword ↗

Game guide · 371HOTEL

Crossword: how a round works

Start Crossword by looking at the playing area and its controls. Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Check the rule that explains your first action. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Solve 24 connected 15×15 layouts with 11–20 entries each. Use the original English clues and scroll the board on narrow screens; completed layouts may appear again.

Build familiarity through play

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.

The objective of a round

Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.

The order of play

  1. Choose a numbered Across or Down clue to highlight its answer.
  2. Select a square and type a letter, or use the on-screen alphabet.
  3. Shared letters belong to both crossing answers. Selecting a shared square twice changes direction.
  4. Use Check entries to review entered letters. Reveal selected supplies one letter and counts as help.
  5. Complete every open square to solve the puzzle. Dark squares are not filled.

How your actions work

Select a clue or square. Use your physical keyboard or the on-screen letters, Erase, Check entries and Reveal selected. Scroll within the board on a narrow screen. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

A closer look at one example

For “The planet on which we live” with five squares, enter EARTH. Any crossing answer must use the same letter at the shared square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.

One detail worth checking

Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Further help with the game

When I return, what is the goal of Crossword?

For clarity: Fill every open square so the intersecting Across and Down answers match their clues.

While reading the Guide, how do I control Crossword?

The key detail is this: Select a clue or square. Use your physical keyboard or the on-screen letters, Erase, Check entries and Reveal selected. Scroll within the board on a narrow screen.

While learning, what example helps explain Crossword?

For the clue “A book of blank or lined pages for writing”, the answer is NOTEBOOK. It occupies 8 squares, and each crossing uses the same letter.

What should I watch out for in Crossword?

For clarity: Do not fill dark squares. A letter that fits one answer must also fit the crossing clue.

While learning, what format does Crossword offer?

For clarity: Solve 24 connected 15×15 layouts with 11–20 entries each. Use the original English clues and scroll the board on narrow screens; completed layouts may appear again.

For this browser game, which play mode does Crossword use?

The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

Where should I start with Crossword?

Here is the relevant explanation: Choose a numbered Across or Down clue to highlight its answer.

For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Crossword?

For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

When I return, how can I find Crossword again?

Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Crossword?

The key detail is this: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)