The first word entered into a crossword puzzle, particularly the New York Times crossword, often serves as an initial foothold, allowing solvers to build upon it and gradually complete the grid. This initial entry, confirmed through intersecting letters of subsequent clues, acts as a foundation for the entire solving process. For example, a short, common word like “AREA” might be easily deduced from its clue and then provide confirming letters for longer, more challenging entries.
The strategic selection of this starting word by constructors can significantly influence the overall solving experience. It can dictate the ease or difficulty of the initial stages, setting the tone for the remainder of the puzzle. Historically, crossword constructors have employed various techniques to choose effective starting words, balancing commonality with clever misdirection. A well-chosen starting point allows solvers to gain momentum and confidence, while a poorly selected one can lead to frustration and impede progress.
