{"id":5399,"date":"2023-11-30T08:00:37","date_gmt":"2023-11-30T08:00:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/?p=5399"},"modified":"2024-07-26T10:21:07","modified_gmt":"2024-07-26T09:21:07","slug":"crosswords","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/","title":{"rendered":"The best pens and pencils for crosswords"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-5401\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A young man sat on a red sofa completing a crossword.\" width=\"650\" height=\"434\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Crossword puzzles are a fantastic activity, providing an enjoyable challenge to people of all ages. However, the pleasure diminishes when pen ink smudges or seeps through the paper, marring the experience.<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s dive into the world of crosswords \u2014 their benefits for your mind and the common hurdles faced while completing them.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ll then explore writing tools, pinpointing the ideal choices for a seamless, hassle-free, crossword-solving experience.<\/p>\n<h2>What are crosswords?<\/h2>\n<p>Crosswords are intricate puzzles built upon a grid of black and white squares.<\/p>\n<p>The aim is to fill each white square with a letter based on the clues provided. These clues, organised under the headers &#8216;across&#8217; and &#8216;down&#8217;, guide players to input words into the grid.<\/p>\n<p>Each clue is numbered to correspond with the numbers found within some white squares.<\/p>\n<p>Various clue types enrich the crossword experience.<\/p>\n<h3>Examples of crossword clue types<\/h3>\n<p>There are many crossword clue types \u2014 here are some of the most common:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Simple clue: <\/strong>Canine pet (3): Dog.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cryptic clue: <\/strong>Controversial novelist in a hurry to snuff it! (7): Rushdie.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fill in the blank<\/strong>: Movie starring Keira Knightley: ____ Actually (4): Love.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Anagram<\/strong>: Moon starer (10): Astronomer.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Abbreviation<\/strong>: Postgraduate university degree (2): MA<\/li>\n<li><strong>Deletion<\/strong>: Listen without an ear (4): List.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Double definitions<\/strong>: Robust author (5): Hardy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>When were crosswords invented?<\/h3>\n<p>The genesis of crosswords dates back to 21 December 1913, when British journalist Arthur Wynne crafted the world&#8217;s inaugural crossword for The New York World.<\/p>\n<p>Upon its arrival in Britain in February 1922 via Pearson&#8217;s Magazine, the crossword frenzy ignited, birthing a craze that still endures.<\/p>\n<h3>Why are crosswords good for you?<\/h3>\n<p>Crosswords extend beyond mere amusement \u2014 they wield substantial <a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/blog\/have-you-done-your-crossword-puzzle-today-202211292857\">benefits for the human mind<\/a>. Engaging in these puzzles activates multiple brain regions, fostering the formation of fresh connections while fortifying existing neural pathways.<\/p>\n<p>Deciphering crossword clues entails moderately complex cognitive action proven to amplify brain health. Remarkably, regular crossword practice is a buffer against brain shrinkage \u2014 a common aspect of ageing.<\/p>\n<p>When you collaborate on crosswords with others, you introduce a social facet to the puzzle-solving process. This collaborative effort has been shown to cultivate additional neural connections in the brain.<\/p>\n<p>Collectively, the cognitive exercises and social engagements associated with crosswords contribute significantly to enhancing memory and refining thinking skills, paving the way for notable improvements in mental prowess.<\/p>\n<h2>How to select the best pens for crosswords<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-5402\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up focused on hands of two people solving a crossword together.\" width=\"650\" height=\"434\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closeup-hands-solving-crossword.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Choosing the perfect pen can significantly elevate your crossword-solving experience. When selecting a writing instrument, key factors to ponder include its legibility, tendency to bleed through paper, and level of permanence.<\/p>\n<h3>Legibility<\/h3>\n<p>Clarity in handwriting is crucial during crossword solving to prevent errors caused by confusion between letters.<\/p>\n<p>The colour of the ink or lead and the tip size are key factors influencing the legibility of your writing.<\/p>\n<h4><em>Colour<\/em><\/h4>\n<p>Consider the background colour of your crosswords. Most reside on white or off-white paper within newspapers or puzzle books. When opting for a pen, black ink or an intensely pigmented dark colour will work best.<\/p>\n<p>Graphite marks are usually adequate if you prefer to work in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/pencils\/\">pencil<\/a> \u2014 especially when applied with more pressure for enhanced visibility. Be mindful, though \u2014 erasures may pose a challenge, potentially causing damage to delicate newsprint.<\/p>\n<h4><em>Tip size<\/em><\/h4>\n<p>The size of your pen or pencil tip matters in ensuring legibility, especially when dealing with similar-looking characters like L and C or O and D.<\/p>\n<p>To mitigate confusion, choose a fine-tipped pen, a well-sharpened <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/graphite-pencil\/\">wooden pencil<\/a>, or a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/mechanical-pencil\/\">mechanical pencil<\/a> to create distinct and precise lettering.<\/p>\n<h3>Bleed-through<\/h3>\n<p>Bleed-through is a common concern when solving crosswords in newspapers, so choosing a suitable writing tool is pivotal.<\/p>\n<p>Steer clear of water-based inks like those in fountain and gel pens, as they\u2019re notorious for bleeding through paper.<\/p>\n<p>A graphite pencil is a safe bet, completely sidestepping this issue. While heavy pressure with a pencil may occasionally show through the page, lighter strokes can prevent this.<\/p>\n<p>If you print your crosswords, print them on thick paper to counteract bleed-through issues. This lets you choose paper that accommodates your favourite pen without compromising the puzzle-solving experience.<\/p>\n<h3>Permanence<\/h3>\n<p>Permanence in your choice of writing instrument often boils down to personal preference among crossword enthusiasts.<\/p>\n<p>There are two camps: staunch advocates of pens, even for the most challenging puzzles, and those content with pencils for easy error correction.<\/p>\n<p>No judgment lies in either choice, but there&#8217;s a distinct satisfaction in penning in solutions that pencils can&#8217;t quite replicate. Conversely, pencils offer the freedom to rectify mistakes without leaving a mess.<\/p>\n<p>Enjoy the best of both worlds by jotting down confirmed answers in pen while using a pencil for flexibility where you\u2019re unsure.<\/p>\n<h2>The best pen types for crosswords<\/h2>\n<p>The ideal pen for your crossword adventures is ultimately the one that feels most comfortable in your hand.<\/p>\n<p>However, as we\u2019ve discussed, certain pen types are more conducive to the task, while others might not serve you as well.<\/p>\n<h3>Ballpoint pen<\/h3>\n<p>Opt for any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/ballpoint-pen\/\">ballpoint pen<\/a> when speed matters, or you&#8217;re eager to dive into your puzzle without deliberating over your writing tool. Its non-smudging ink glides smoothly and dries swiftly, ensuring a quick and hassle-free experience.<\/p>\n<p>When you have time to deliberate your pen choice, select a fine-tipped ballpoint pen that\u2019s comfortable to hold for long periods.<\/p>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/fisher-space-pen\/\">Fisher Space pen<\/a> is a wonderful option to complete your crossword on the go, as it works at all angles.<\/p>\n<h3>Pencil and eraser<\/h3>\n<p>If flexibility is your priority, a pencil paired with an eraser or an erasable pen allows you to revise your answers.<\/p>\n<p>Before fully committing to a new pencil, test it in an inconspicuous spot on the page to ensure easy erasure without leaving stubborn marks.<\/p>\n<h3>Further considerations<\/h3>\n<p>While ballpoint pens are recommended, some exceptions exist. Certain fountain pens, rollerballs, and gel pens can tackle the average crossword puzzle well.<\/p>\n<p>Some fountain pen enthusiasts steadfastly use them for all tasks, including crosswords. It&#8217;s a matter of personal preference.<\/p>\n<p>The key is finding the pen that suits the specific demands of the crossword puzzle at hand. There&#8217;s a pen for every job \u2014 you must discover the one that best fits your needs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Crossword puzzles are a fantastic activity, providing an enjoyable challenge to people of all ages. However, the pleasure diminishes when pen ink smudges or seeps through the paper, marring the experience. Let&#8217;s dive into the world of crosswords \u2014 their benefits for your mind and the common hurdles faced while completing them. We\u2019ll then explore&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":5401,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1,136],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v19.7.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The best pens and pencils for crosswords - The Pen Company Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover the joys of crossword puzzles and learn to overcome ink bleeds and smudges as you explore the best writing tools for a flawless solving experience.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The best pens and pencils for crosswords - The Pen Company Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover the joys of crossword puzzles and learn to overcome ink bleeds and smudges as you explore the best writing tools for a flawless solving experience.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Pen Company Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ThePenCompany\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-11-30T08:00:37+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-07-26T09:21:07+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/young-man-sofa-crossword.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1600\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1067\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Lucy Williams\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@thepencompany\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@thepencompany\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Lucy Williams\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/\",\"name\":\"The best pens and pencils for crosswords - The Pen Company Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-11-30T08:00:37+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-07-26T09:21:07+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/b621584a04332c39a493182f2dca6376\"},\"description\":\"Discover the joys of crossword puzzles and learn to overcome ink bleeds and smudges as you explore the best writing tools for a flawless solving experience.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/writing\/crosswords\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"The best pens and pencils for crosswords\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"The Pen Company Blog\",\"description\":\"\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/b621584a04332c39a493182f2dca6376\",\"name\":\"Lucy Williams\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f251747ed7a120404b73c37c381c4c96?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f251747ed7a120404b73c37c381c4c96?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Lucy Williams\"},\"description\":\"Lucy is our lead editor and has been passionate about stationery since childhood. 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