Crossword Help Forum
Forum Rules

Fascinating to read Wee Stinker's reflections on his life as a crossword compiler. His only regret? Those who abuse the forum in their pursuit of t-shirts. Not prepared to sit and savour the possibilities of a clever clue - just gimme the answer before the post is lifted.

Heard that before somewhere ... the crossword police, wasn't it? Still believe that? Or maybe not so much Clouseau as Clueless?

It's fair comment. I haven't submitted a completed crossword since I joined the forum. Seems like cheating to me. But I used to collaborate with a friend, and that doesn't seem so different somehow, since we all kinda know each other on here. I'm in two minds, but I always try to get the answers before going online. BTW I managed Monday's without any assistance, thanks to insights I've gained from friends here.

If you have to ask for answers I don’t think that you can morally enter the draw.

I have three t shirts from years back and long ago stopped posting entries off. I do find the forums invaluable for when the parsing totally stumps me and I don’t think asking for help is cheating, it’s just how you learn.

I must admit I disliked the change to having a “winner” rather than just the first five drawn out of the hat. There’s no “skill” to having your name drawn first.

That's exactly what I do. If I can't do it myself I check for the answers but don't post it in. The point I'm trying to make is this is a fun crossword. Nothing wrong with getting a nudge in the right direction, eg something's not an anagram or a certain word is a verb not a noun. But simply to fill a shopping list with answers is so sad. Also, taking a few unfinished clues to bed is a great cure for insomnia!