Introduction
Few things can match the satisfaction of completing an entire WSJ Crossword. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the morning or winding down at night with a puzzle, there’s a certain joy in watching the grid slowly fill with answers. Of course, that joy can quickly turn into frustration when you hit a wall on a clue.
If you’ve ever stared at a single stubborn square for 10 minutes, you’re not alone. That’s the unique magic (and sometimes madness) of crosswords, especially those from the Wall Street Journal. They’re challenging, clever, and often just a tiny bit sneaky. But they’re also hugely rewarding once you understand their style.
In this guide, we’ll explore the WSJ Crossword from every angle. You’ll learn insider tricks for faster solving, common traps to watch for, and even some of the puzzle’s history and quirks. Whether you’re a beginner or a long-time solver looking to sharpen your skills, I’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to love (or at least outsmart) the WSJ Crossword.
Why the WSJ Crossword Feels Different
The Wall Street Journal’s crossword has a style that sets it apart from others like the New York Times or LA Times puzzles. If you’ve tried them all, you know what I mean.
A Unique Mix of Clever and Accessible
WSJ puzzles balance wit and fairness. They’re often themed, but the themes aren’t always obvious until halfway through the grid. Sometimes the payoff is hilarious. Other times, it’s groan-worthy in the best way possible.
Clues That Play With Language
Expect a lot of wordplay. WSJ crossword editors love puns, double meanings, and misdirection.
The Weekly Puzzle Variety
The WSJ offers:
- Daily crosswords (Monday–Friday): Clever but not overly brutal.
- Saturday puzzle: A tougher test, often with larger grids.
- Friday Puzzle Contest: A meta puzzle where the grid hides a secondary answer.
Getting Started: WSJ Crossword Basics
If you’re new, jumping straight into a Friday meta puzzle is like running a marathon without training. Start slow.
Understand Puzzle Difficulty by Day
- Monday–Tuesday: Easiest. Great for beginners.
- Wednesday–Thursday: Medium difficulty, trickier themes.
- Friday: Meta puzzle. Requires an extra layer of thinking.
- Saturday: Hardest of the week.
Learn the Common Crossword Rules
Even if WSJ editors play with conventions, some basics remain:
- Answers run left-to-right (across) and top-to-bottom (down).
- Black squares separate answers.
- Every letter is part of both an across and a down clue.
Strategies for Solving Faster
Start with the Givens
Fill in the easiest clues first. Proper nouns, obvious fills, and short three-letter answers often unlock more difficult ones.
Use Crossings to Build Momentum
When you solve an across clue, check all the down clues it opens up.
Learn the Common Fill Words
The WSJ Crossword reuses classic short entries like:
- “ERA” (time period)
- “ORE” (mineral)
- “ELI” (Biblical name)
- “ETA” (Greek letter)
Master the Clue Styles
- Straight facts: e.g., “Capital of France” → PARIS
- Puns: Indicated by question marks in clues.
- Abbreviations: Clues with “abbr.” or subtle indicators.
- Fill-in-the-blank: Often easier entry points.
Common WSJ Crossword Pitfalls
Overthinking the Theme
Sometimes the answer is simpler than it seems. Don’t force an overly complex idea.
Ignoring Small Clues
A three- or four-letter fill might not look important, but it can break open tough sections.
Getting Stuck in One Corner
Don’t waste time grinding on one area. Move around the grid to keep momentum going.
The WSJ Meta Contest Puzzle
Fridays are special. The meta puzzle asks you to solve the crossword first, then find a hidden answer related to the theme.
How to Crack a Meta Puzzle
- Solve the crossword normally.
- Identify the theme answers.
- Look for patterns or extra layers of letters, acronyms, and hidden sequences.
- Piece together the meta solution.
If you get the meta answer, you can submit it to WSJ for a chance to be mentioned in the winners’ list.
History of the WSJ Crossword
The WSJ first published crosswords in the late 1990s but became truly known for them in the mid-2000s under editors like Mike Shenk. Shenk’s style defined the puzzle’s balance of challenge and fun, earning it a loyal audience.
Digital vs. Print: Solving
You can solve the WSJ Crossword in print (in the newspaper) or online.
Digital Solving
Pros:
- Immediate feedback if you’re wrong.
- Easy to erase mistakes.
- Portable.
Cons:
- Easier to “cheat” by checking letters.
- Less tactile satisfaction than pen and paper.
Pro Tips from Experienced Solvers
- Work in pencil if solving on paper; ink mistakes can get messy.
- Set a timer for fun, but don’t rush if you’re learning. Solving puzzles with a partner for harder puzzles it’s a great social activity.
Related and Long-Tail Keywords
Incorporated naturally throughout:
- WSJ crossword answers
- Wall Street Journal puzzle help
- WSJ crossword tips
- WSJ crossword contest strategies
Conclusion
The WSJ Crossword is one of the most enjoyable (and occasionally infuriating) puzzles around. The more you solve it, the more you recognize its patterns and humor. Whether you go for the daily puzzles or the mind-bending Friday meta, the key is practice and patience.
So what’s your solving ritual? Do you tackle across clues first, or go hunting for the downs?
FAQs
How hard is the WSJ Crossword?
It ranges from easy early-week puzzles to very hard Saturday ones.
Is the WSJ Crossword free online?
Yes, the daily crossword is free on the WSJ website.
What is the Friday WSJ Crossword meta puzzle?
A contest puzzle where a hidden answer must be found after solving.
Who edits the WSJ Crossword?
Mike Shenk is the longtime editor.
How do I submit a WSJ meta answer?
There’s a submission form on the WSJ crossword contest page.
Can I solve the WSJ Crossword offline?
Yes, via the print edition or downloadable PDF.
Are WSJ crosswords themed every day?
Almost always, especially Monday–Friday.
