Crosswords
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 Compiling crosswords is a terrific way of keeping your mind active, and is even more fun than trying to solve them. Computer software has made this a much more user-friendly task than in the past, and here's a link to Antony Lewis' fantastic Crossword Compiler which very much simplifies the task. If you're into solving cryptic crosswords rather than compiling them, you just can't afford to be without William Tunstall-Pedoe's Crossword Maestro. This is one of the most unbelievable pieces of software I've ever seen. You simply make up the grid, type in the clues, then set it going! It not only fills in the grid, but explains how each answer is obtained. A difficult cryptic crossword such as The Times won't be completed, but I've seen it achieve 75% - it's usually reasonably easy for you then to complete the remainder yourself. Of course, this takes away the challenge and fun of crossword solving, but for anyone who is setting out to learn about cryptic crosswords it is a very good tutor. |
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