Minute Cryptic is a word puzzle game designed for you to be introduced to cryptic crosswords. The game offers one new puzzle a day, rather than a long grid of dozens of clues. You can try to solve it yourself, use hints when needed or check the explanation to see how a cryptic clue is constructed. The objective is simple. Find the right word that fits the number of squares available. The hard part is to figure out the clue and put the right answer together.
Each clue typically contains a definition, the part that directly indicates the answer's meaning. This definition usually appears at the beginning or end of the sentence. When reading a clue, try to identify which part describes a word matching the required letter count.
The rest of the clue is wordplay. This tells you how to construct the answer. Minute Cryptic uses a range of wordplay techniques; you might be asked to find the first, last or middle letter of a word, for example. Some clues are anagrams; some hide the answer step-by-step in the sentence itself.
Indicators can be words like first, ends, heart, mix, broken or dancing that tell you how you should manipulate the letters.
Minute Cryptic uses a Par score to measure your efficiency in solving a puzzle. Dots indicate the number of attempts or hints used. To achieve a good result, aim to complete the clue using as few checks and hints as possible.
You can enter letters directly into the answer squares. If you are unsure, the Scribble button allows you to jot down notes and test ideas without committing to a final answer immediately. The Hints button offers extra help but affects your Par score. If you already have an answer and want to verify it, you can use the Check function.
Every day, Minute Cryptic provides a new puzzle designed to help you progress in solving cryptic crosswords. If you are new to the game, begin with the letter count, find the definition and see what operation is needed by looking at the wordplay.
When you learn about indicators and putting words together, you will see repeating patterns in the clues. If you're looking for a new word game, consider trying Worditch for fresh challenges.
