Free crossword maker for NYT-style puzzles
A free browser-based crossword constructor — NYT-style grids and smart autofill. Export to .puz with Plus.
Start building, no sign-up needed
Smart fill-assist
Ranked word suggestions as you build, off the main thread.
Real construction tools
Symmetry, theme modes, special squares.
Autosaved library
Every puzzle autosaves in your browser as you build.
A crossword maker built for constructors
NYT-style grids, built for you
15×15 daily and 21×21 Sunday sizes. Blocks mirror automatically for 180° rotational symmetry, and squares renumber live as you build.
Ranked fill suggestions
Click any slot to see the words that fit. Gridsmith checks the whole grid and hides dead ends, ranks words that keep their crossings healthy at the top, and previews the fill around a word before you place it. Free.
Autofill a word or the whole puzzle
A backtracking fill engine checks every crossing before it commits a word. Type your theme entries first and let Gridsmith fill the grid around them.
Clues, side by side
Write Across and Down clues next to the grid. Clues stay attached to their answers even when the numbering changes.
Live grid stats
Word count, block count and percentage, empty squares and unchecked squares update as you edit, so you know right away whether a grid meets submission standards.
Autosaved, no download
Runs in any modern desktop browser. Every puzzle saves itself to your library. Export to JSON for free, or .puz and print-ready PDF with Gridsmith Plus.
How to make a crossword puzzle in Gridsmith
- Pick a grid size and place black squares. Symmetry is handled for you.
- Lock in your theme entries, then fill the rest with ranked suggestions or autofill.
- Write your clues, check the stats, and export to .puz or PDF to share or submit.
New to construction? Read the step-by-step guide to making a crossword or browse all crossword construction guides.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gridsmith free?
Yes. Building, filling, cluing and saving puzzles is free. Gridsmith Plus ($4.99/month or $39.96/year) adds the NYT submission check, .puz export and import and print-ready PDF output.
Do I need to download anything?
No. Gridsmith runs entirely in your web browser. It works best on a desktop or laptop, since construction needs a wide screen.
Can I make a New York Times–style crossword with Gridsmith?
Yes. Gridsmith is built around American-style conventions: 15×15 and 21×21 grids, 180° rotational symmetry, all-over interlock, automatic numbering, and live word, block and unchecked-square counts.
How is Gridsmith different from Crossfire or Crossword Compiler?
Crossfire and Crossword Compiler are paid desktop programs you have to install. Gridsmith runs in the browser, is free to build with, and autosaves every puzzle, so you can start making a grid in seconds.
Can I export my crossword as a .puz file?
Yes, with Gridsmith Plus. .puz is the Across Lite format most crossword apps and editors accept. You can also print a PDF of the grid and clues.
Where are my puzzles stored?
Free accounts save puzzles in your browser's local storage on your device. Gridsmith Plus also backs up every puzzle to your account, so it syncs across devices and survives clearing your browser. You can export any puzzle to a file at any time.