The Long and Short of Cryptic Abbreviations

by Denise Sutherland One of the keys to cracking the cryptic code is learning about abbreviations. We setters use abbreviations in our clues all the time. They are used to ‘clue’ letters individually, or sometimes in pairs or triplets. Here’s an example. Say I am writing a clue for the word CICADA. One of the […]

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Anagram Clues

by Denise Sutherland One of the most common types of cryptic crossword clue you’ll come across is anagram clues. In these sorts of clues there is — as is usual with most cryptic clues – a definition, and some wordplay. The definition is a regular definition for the answer word. So, for example, say if […]

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Solve puzzles in a virtual setting

A library used to be a place that simply offered resources mostly in print format.  Not anymore.  It is now a technological hub of the universe, where a variety of electronic resources are provided to patrons.  Online puzzles is just one example.  When patrons solve puzzles in a virtual setting, they need to be able […]

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A Shakespearean Spelling Bee

At the Clue Detective Puzzle Agency we always love playing with words in a variety of ways. Imagine our delight when we came across this of words,  all invented by William Shakespeare.  We invite you to take a step back in time, and see how the Bard contributed to our language today. One of the […]

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Improve Your Spelling With the Teacher’s Cat

by Catherine Eagleson When I was a child, my grandmother introduced my sister, brother and I to a great word building game.  It is called The Teacher’s Cat.  I would like to share it with you.  If you are looking for word puzzle games to play with your kids to help them improve their spelling, […]

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Zoom In to Solve Codeword Puzzles

Playing online word games such as codewords is extremely beneficial for you no matter what your age. They are great for improving your general knowledge, vocabulary, not to mention your logic and critical thinking skills. There is always an element of mystery and fun when you solve codeword puzzles. They are perfect to solve on […]

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Cryptic Crossword Puzzles With Nixie

by Denise Sutherland  So – what are cryptic crosswords? To the uninitiated they appear completely unfathomable, and deservedly so. The clues seem to make no sense whatsoever! Well, I’m happy to tell you that they can make sense, once you know the tricks of the trade. A cryptic clue is typically formed from two elements […]

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Scrabble : Build A Crossword Puzzle Grid From Scratch!

Scrabble is a great educational word puzzle game that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. in which two to four players score points by forming words from individual lettered tiles on a game board mith a 15-by-15 grid.   It can be likened to building a crossword puzzle grid from scratch.  Players place words across and […]

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Puzzles as Learning Tools

By Catherine Eagleson Using puzzles as e-learning tools is an innovative way for business and educational organisations to present their material  It is a very cost-effective form of training and it allows employees or students to do the training whenever it suits them. When designing your e-course you will need to build in some form […]

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Puzzles Help Mental Stability During a Pandemic 

by Sumaiya Kabir One of the best ways to stay mentally strong in this new norm, without losing your mind of course, is through solving puzzles. There are researches conducted and scientific explanations provided on thecorrelation between puzzles and mental health. This game is one of the cogitative activities that reduces anxiety and promotes overall mental well-being. Through untangling puzzles, you can: Exercise your little grey cells Manage boredom in an enjoyable way Connect with your family and […]

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