crossword start – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "crossword start," you've come to the right place. We provide the most accurate and commonly used solutions, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword start" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CLUE: The initial instruction or question that begins your solving process.
GRID: The main puzzle layout, where you start filling in answers.
5 Letters
BEGIN: A direct synonym for 'start,' often used when a clue directly asks for a word's commencement.
ENTRY: Can refer to the first word you enter into the crossword, or the starting point of a word.
6 Letters
ACROSS: The common direction of the first clue (1-Across) in most standard crosswords, serving as a typical starting point.
More About "crossword start"
"Crossword start" is a deceptively simple clue that can point to various aspects of a crossword puzzle. It might refer to the actual beginning of a word, often hinted at by phrases like "start of the day" or "first of its kind." Alternatively, it could allude to the initial action a solver takes, such as looking at the very first clue, traditionally 1-Across.
Understanding the context is crucial. Is the clue hinting at a component of the puzzle (like a CLUE or the GRID itself), or a process (like to BEGIN solving)? Sometimes, it's a word-part indicator, meaning you only need the first letter or few letters of a larger word. Always consider the word length and any intersecting letters you might already have.
The beauty of crossword puzzles lies in their ability to use common words in new and challenging ways. "Crossword start" is a prime example of a clue that encourages lateral thinking and a deep understanding of crossword mechanics and vocabulary.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Scan All Clues: Before diving deep, quickly read through all the clues (both Across and Down). This gives you an overview of the puzzle's theme and might reveal some immediate, easy answers.
- Start with Short Words: Often, shorter words (3 or 4 letters) are easier to deduce and provide valuable intersecting letters for longer, more complex words.
- Look for Plurals and Past Tenses: Clues ending in "s" or "ed" often indicate that the answer will also be plural or in the past tense, respectively. This can narrow down your options significantly.
- Consider Common Crossword Fillers: Many short words and common abbreviations (e.g., ESA, OHS, ALA) appear frequently. Familiarity with these can give you a quick "start" in a new puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'crossword start' typically refer to?
In crosswords, 'start' can refer to several things: the very first clue (often 1-Across), the beginning of a word, or the initial action of solving the puzzle. It's a broad term that depends heavily on the context of the clue itself, often hinting at the initial phase of the puzzle or its components.
Are there common opening clues or conventions in crosswords?
Yes, '1-Across' is almost universally the first clue you encounter, designed to be accessible. Many puzzles also feature themed clues that 'start' the puzzle's central theme or even the first letter of a word. Familiarity with common crossword lingo like 'Across' and 'Down' is key.
How can I improve my speed when starting a new crossword?
To improve speed, begin by scanning all clues for easy wins (short words, common knowledge, or proper nouns). Then, focus on 1-Across and 1-Down, as these often provide intersecting letters quickly. Don't get stuck on one clue; move on and come back later. Practice with different puzzle types helps significantly.