DiscoverGrammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better WritingThe secret rules of crossword puzzles, with Natan Last
The secret rules of crossword puzzles, with Natan Last

The secret rules of crossword puzzles, with Natan Last

Update: 2025-11-13
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1133. This week, crossword pro Natan Last talks about his book "Across the Universe." We look at the technical and cultural differences between American and British puzzle styles and the secrets that will surprise you about how clues are written and edited. We also look at "crosswordese," the long submission process for the “New York Times,” and the AI that won a human crossword tournament.

Find Natan Last at Natanlast.com.

Get the book, "Across the Universe."

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The secret rules of crossword puzzles, with Natan Last

The secret rules of crossword puzzles, with Natan Last

Natan Last, Mignon Fogarty