Will Shortz has been creating crossword puzzles at the New York Times for over 50 years. His advice on the game is sound wisdom for life:
• Begin with the answers you’re surest of and build from there.
• Don’t be afraid to guess.
• Don’t be afraid to erase an answer that isn’t working out.
• If you are stuck, put it aside and return later.
• It’s your puzzle. Solve it any way you want.