Each clue in a cryptic crossword has two parts: a definition of the answer and an indication of the answer’s literal makeup via wordplay. Either half may come first; finding the dividing point between the two parts is the key to solving. On page 61, eight common methods by which hints are given via wordplay are described; any combination of these gimmicks may be used.
Expect to for DR, for HI, or for U), chemical symbols ( for Fe), Roman numerals ( for V), and parts of words ( for R, for C, or O). A clue with an exclamation point may be what’s called an . clue, in which the two halves overlap, so the whole clue is both a definition and a cryptic indication of the answer, as in for ENRAGED (see “anagrams” on page 61). Give these puzzles a try!
