Technical tips

All puzzles on this blog can be solved online through PuzzleMe or downloaded in both Across Lite (.puz) and pdf formats. Links to solve online or download puzzles are included at the top of each blog post.

Solving puzzles digitally

The simplest way to do my puzzles is by clicking on the “solve online” link. This will open a digital version of the puzzle through PuzzleMe. You can also download the .puz file and upload it to Crossword Nexus.

There are also many free programs out there that will then let you open .puz files on your devices. Personally, I use Black Ink 2 on my mac. Another free option is Across Lite, which is available for macs, PCs, and iPads.

If you want to solve on a mobile device, the Puzzazz app works for apple products and alphacross works for Android devices. After downloading the app on your device, just try to open the .puz file and the puzzle should automatically open in the correct app.

In terms of accessibility, my understanding is that Black Ink 2 should be compatible with screenreaders, but please let me know if you find my puzzles inaccessible and would like me to share them in a different format.

Solving puzzles with pencil and paper

If you prefer to solve puzzles the old fashion way, you can always print out the pdf files and solve them in pencil, pen, crayon, or whatever writing implement you prefer.