376 Part IV: The Part of Tens
that the S will work in every case — the English language is never that easy
(think about the plural forms of mouse, dice, or child, for example). But in many
cases, that S will be correct. And you’ll be surprised at how often a single letter
may inspire you to solve an intersecting clue.Looking at Verb Tenses
Again, if the puzzle constructor is worth his salt, the verb tense used in a clue
will match the verb tense used in the answer. So if you’re looking at a clue that
contains a verb in the past tense, you may want to pencil in the letters ED at
the end of the corresponding entry. Of course, the English language has a lot
of irregular verbs that don’t end in -ed in the past tense (consider think, eat,
and write). But if you’re stuck mid-puzzle and are searching for ways to break
through your solver’s block, this tip is definitely worth a try.
Clues that contain verbs ending in -ing are worth a look as well. Depending on
how the clue is written, the answer could also end in ING.Gathering Great Resources
Throughout this book, I encourage you to consider outside resources (whether
books, Web sites, or friends and family members) as fair game when you’re
working a crossword. You may know people who think otherwise — who con-
sider cracking open a dictionary while working a crossword the ultimate form
of cheating. But I consider it a simple act of learning and a very appropriate
means of becoming a better puzzler.Taking a Breather!
If you’ve worked for a long time on a puzzle and still can’t quite figure it out,
walk away. Do something else that you enjoy — even another (perhaps easier)
puzzle — and return to your challenge with fresh eyes. Working puzzles should
be fun — even when it’s frustrating. So if the frustration threatens to smother
the fun, give yourself a break!