Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies - Softcover

The cryptic crossword world?explained Even expert crossword-solvers struggle with cryptics. The clues can often seem nonsensical, mysterious and infuriating, but finally cracking them is immensely satisfying. Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies is designed to help even the most casual crossword lover master these mental feats of gymnastics. Packed with clear explanations, helpful hints, and practice crosswords, the book explains how to approach these problems in a clear and logical manner, providing hints on identifying the different kinds of clues and tips on how to solve them. Using worked examples and clear explanations, the book guides the reader through the common and not-so-common clues that can be used to decipher even the most confusing cryptics, and includes practice puzzles to put your new skills to the test. * Introduces and explains cryptic crosswords, from the (relatively) simple to the advanced * Illustrates the top tips, tricks, and clues to cracking any cryptic through worked examples * Covers both Commonwealth and U.S.-style cryptics, and explains the subtle differences between them * Provides plenty of practice crosswords for all levels of difficulty Cryptic crosswords have emerged as one of today's most popular brainteasers, and Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies is the one-stop resource for becoming a puzzle pro.

Master the cryptic crossword at any difficulty level

Even experienced crossword solvers struggle with cryptics. Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies helps all crossword lovers — from casual to expert — master the feats of mental gymnastics required to conquer these puzzles. Packed with clear explanations, helpful hints and practice grids, this book explains how to approach cryptic crosswords in a clear and logical manner.

• Learn the basics — discover how to decipher the common types of cryptic clues
• Find hidden messages with ease — become a master at uncovering disguised solutions
• Understand the importance of anagrams — find out how to decode anagram clues
• Put your new-found skills to use — test yourself with plenty of practice puzzles covering all difficulty levels
• Incorporate letter-gathering — decipher abbreviations and other bits and pieces
• Explore different international puzzles — understand the variations in puzzles from around the globe

Open the book and find:

• Information on the mental benefits of solving cryptic crosswords
• Tips on how to identify different kinds of clues
• Worked examples and clear explanations
• Practice clues and grids for all levels of experience
• Hints to help you on your way if you're stuck
• Reference lists to help you decipher the cryptic code

Learn to:

• Solve different kinds of cryptic crossword clues
• Graduate from easy to medium to difficult cryptic crosswords
• Keep your brain fit and healthy
• Complete cryptic crosswords with confidence!