Additional Information
Crossword puzzle constructor Kathleen Hamilton recommends that beginners
complete a number of different puzzles to get a feel for constructing before
they approach publishers.
"Go to the library, to the reference section, and see which book publishers
would likely be interested in crossword puzzles. Put together a collection
of 50 crosswords that have been looked at and tried by people and then submit
them to those publishers."
Constructor Coral Amende suggests submitting "your first few puzzles to
editors with reputations for being willing to take new constructors under
their wings.
"If you do receive a rejection notice, don't be discouraged -- if the puzzle
is at all salvageable, these editors will usually include suggestions for
improvement. Fix the puzzle and submit it again."
And, she adds, "Don't be afraid to ask for help."
There's no course that can give you the passion and drive you need to become
a successful crossword puzzle constructor. "It's really an obsession that
starts prior to entering the constructing world," Amende remarks, "and if
you don't have it, you won't have the persistence to make your career choice
pay off."
That said, top constructors share many skills that only a good education
can provide. Amende says the lessons learned in English class -- "a facility
with words and grammar" -- are essential.
"Those who are not good spellers or who are careless with the language
don't make it far."
Basic math skills also come in handy, Amende notes, though "the plethora
of software takes away much of the burden of grid layout and construction
that we used to slave over for hours."
To find the material needed to build a superior puzzle, Amende recommends
"reading books, newspapers and publications such as People Weekly, Entertainment
Weekly, Time, Newsweek and the like.
"You'll also familiarize yourself with current goings-on in music, film
and television -- subjects that appeal to a broad audience and subjects with
which that audience is familiar."
Above all, she emphasizes, study and solve the puzzles of other constructors
before trying to create your own. "You won't know what's been done or what
contemporary styles are unless you do some research into the crossword puzzle
market," she points out.