How to use Crossword Puzzle Generator

Enter each answer with its clue.
Run the bounded arrangement search.
Review the numbered puzzle and answer key before printing.

Example: Crossword Puzzle Generator

A local worked example using the inputs and settings below for crossword puzzle generator.

You add

Answers and clues, separated by a tab: "CAT\tA small pet\nCAR\tA road vehicle" Puzzle title: "My crossword" PDF paper size: "a4"

You get

Placed all 2 supplied answers in one connected 3 by 3 crossword. 1 | down | CAR | A road vehicle | 1 | 2 2 | across | CAT | A small pet | 2 | 1 crossword-and-answer-key.pdf (3 pages) crossword-puzzle.svg crossword-answer-key.svg

Options

Answer and clue rows: Use a tab between each ASCII-letter answer and its supplied clue. Answers must be distinct; the generator does not write clues.
Search and paper: Choose the paper size for the puzzle and answer key. A refused bounded search does not prove no connected arrangement exists.

Supported inputs and limits

Up to 20 distinct answers of 2–20 ASCII Latin letters, 160 characters per supplied clue and 5,000 input characters, in a 31-by-31 grid. The bounded search uses at most 6,000 nodes and 300,000 candidate checks. It places every answer in one connected crossword or refuses with a useful message; refusal does not prove no layout exists. Clues are not invented. PDF titles and clues use Latin/WinAnsi text; unsupported characters are refused.

Where your input is processed

This tool processes your input in this browser. Your text and files are not uploaded to UseFreeTools. Check this tool's limits for anything it may save on your device.

Separate the answer key before sharing

The puzzle gives numbered clues for the arranged grid. Check those numbers and the supplied wording, then keep the solution pages apart from the activity. Long or disconnected answer sets may require editing rather than repeatedly requesting the same layout.

Questions about Crossword Puzzle Generator

What if the words cannot be arranged?

The page refuses when its bounded search cannot place every answer. Try different answers or a smaller set.

Can it silently leave out difficult words?

No. A successful export must include every supplied answer.

Are clues generated automatically?

No. You provide each clue and should check that it identifies its intended answer.

Project manager: Tony Hines · Content updated 4 October 2026 · Report a problem