Crossword Maker
Make a printable crossword from your words and clues.
About this tool
Type each answer and its clue on a line, such as 'planet - Mars is the red one'. The crossword is laid out automatically with numbered squares and Across and Down clues. Try another layout, print the puzzle and print the answer key.
How the crossword is built
The generator places the longest word first, then fits each remaining word where it crosses letters already on the grid, preferring spots with the most crossings. Every placement is checked so letters never touch except where words genuinely cross, meaning no accidental extra 'words' appear in the grid. It tries many arrangements and keeps the one that fits the most words in the most compact, square-ish grid. Squares are numbered in normal reading order (left to right, top to bottom), and the clues are split into Across and Down with the number of letters in brackets, just like a newspaper puzzle. The answer key fills in every square and lists the answers. Crosswords are great for vocabulary and spelling practice, topic revision in any subject, language learning, quizzes, staff newsletters, party games and wedding or birthday puzzles. Honest limits: a word that shares no letters with the others can't be connected and is listed so you can swap or add words. Answers are letters only (spaces and hyphens are dropped), and the result is a free-form crossword, not a symmetrical newspaper grid. The word search maker and the cryptogram maker are related.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make my own crossword puzzle?
Enter each answer with a clue, one per line, and the tool lays out, numbers and prints the puzzle for you.
Can I print a crossword answer key?
Yes. Use 'Print answer key' to print the filled grid and answers.
Why couldn't some words be placed?
They share no letters with the other words. Add words with common letters or try a new layout.
Can I use phrases as answers?
Yes, but spaces and punctuation are removed, so 'ice cream' becomes ICECREAM.
Is my data sent anywhere?
No. Everything is generated in your browser, and nothing is stored or sent.