Creating a Crossword Manually¶

This guide explains how to create crosswords by hand using Crossword Studio's grid editor.

Initial Setup¶

Begin by configuring your puzzle through the manual start window:

1. Puzzle name - Give your puzzle a title
2. Puzzle type - Select "Crossword"
3. Language - Choose your language (must be enabled in macOS Settings > General > Language & Region)
4. Grid dimensions - Set the width and height
5. Grid fill option - Choose how to start

Grid Fill Options¶

Choose one of three approaches:

1. Empty grid - Start with an empty grid containing blackened cells, then add words
2. Filled grid - Begin with a fully filled grid and select which cells to blacken
3. Custom shape - Choose custom shaping for non-square designs

Grid Editor¶

After clicking Start, the Grid Editor opens.

Grid Editing Controls¶

Mouse Operations¶

• Left-click - Adds a cell to the grid
• Right-click - Removes a cell from the grid

Additional Features¶

• Undo/Redo - Correct mistakes using the Edit menu or Command-Z/Command-Shift-Z
• Save - Save your work mid-project using the File menu
• Symmetry toggle - Enable mirrored cell placement for symmetric designs

• Expand/Trim buttons - Adjust grid dimensions using toolbar buttons

Creating Non-Square Grids¶

Right-clicking blank cells blocks them, enabling non-square grid creation.

Adding Content¶

After creating word placements, use the keyboard to enter puzzle solutions.

Word Suggestions¶

Word suggestions are available for English and Spanish puzzles to help you fill the grid.

Adding Circles¶

Add circles to specific cells by pressing Shift+O.

Publishing¶

The Publish button activates only when all cells contain letters. Click it to proceed to the Publishing stage.