## How to play Crossword Midi

Crossword Midi is a medium-sized crossword puzzle. It's perfect if you want an easier crossword puzzle or if you don't have the time to complete a whole one.

* The Across column gives you hints for the word that would be placed in the corresponding grid number horizontally. For example, if the hint for #1 across is "season after fall," the answer would be "winter."
* The Down column works the same way, where the answer would be written vertically to the corresponding grid number.
* Across clues can intersect with Down clues, meaning the puzzle isn’t split into two separate parts.
* You win when you have filled out the entire crossword puzzle with the correct words.

If you're up for a challenge, try our traditional [crossword puzzle](https://solitaired.com/crossword). 

## Strategies

* **Fill the easy stuff first.** Scan for short clues, plurals, fill-in-the-blanks, and anything you’re sure about. Early letters unlock tougher answers.
* **Work across and down.** Switching directions gives fresh angles and cross-checks guesses quickly.
* **Let crossings do the heavy lifting.** Even one or two letters can flip a vague clue into an obvious answer.
* **Count letters carefully.** The grid length + crossings often rules out tempting but wrong ideas.
* **Note the tense and part of speech**. Past tense answers end in -ED; plural clues want plural answers.
* **Think laterally.** Many clues aren’t literal; synonyms, slang, or alternate meanings are common.
* **Skip and return.** If you’re stuck, move on. New crossings often solve old problems.