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Reading for the stuck and the curious.

A black-and-white crossword grid on cream newsprint with a pencil resting across it
Getting better How to actually improve at crosswords

Not tips, a training plan. Solve down a day, keep a miss list, learn the hundred words that show up everywhere, and stop erasing so much. Six weeks to a faster, calmer solve.

8 min read · Aug 19, 2026
A British-style cryptic crossword grid on cream paper beside a fountain pen and ink bottleCrypticsCryptics, decoded: your first Guardian puzzle12 min read · Aug 19 A magnifying glass over a crossword grid revealing one square holding several small lettersBasicsThe rebus, explained (yes, two letters, one box)5 min read · Aug 19 A stopwatch resting beside a partly filled crossword grid on cream newsprintSpeedWhat the three-minute solvers know7 min read · Aug 20 Books on a deskBasicsMonday to Saturday: how difficulty ramps through the week6 min read · Aug 10 Library shelvesVocabularyA field guide to crosswordese: ERA, OREO, ETUI9 min read · Aug 7 Notebook and penCulturePencil vs. pen: the eternal debate, settled badly4 min read · Aug 4 Open bookThemesHow constructors hide themes (and how to spot them)10 min read · Aug 1 Study deskCultureSolving with a partner without ruining the relationship6 min read · Jul 29