A crossword can appear inviting and yet daunting to many of us. Many of us even though fully equipped to face the challenge of solving a cryptic crossword turn away longingly looking, not daring to pull our pens out to crack the code. Finally, here is a book that unlocks the secrets of cracking a crossword in simple steps and puts the joy of solving a puzzle within one's arm reach. This book is designed to be used as a primer, a workbook, a refresher capsule and a reference book, all rolled into one, depending on the needs and skills of the user. No longer do you need to wonder if you are equal to the task. Savour the unbeatable satisfaction of solving a mystery, of struggling and winning, with Understanding Cryptic Crosswords. About The Author Vivek Kumar Singh is an IAS officer who embarked upon the less travelled but enchanting path of crossword-making in the salubrious environs of Mussoorie. As a probationer at the Lal Bahadur Shastri Academy of Administration, in an effort to spread his passion amongst his fellow colleagues, he began making crosswords for the Hobbies Club and the Nature Lovers' Club. Having graduated from cracking crosswords in the corridors of Delhi University to making them, Vivek was quick to master the art. After first creating crosswords professionally for the Career and Competition Times, he has regularly contributed for national newspapers and magazines like Sunday Pioneer, Air India Magazine, Swagat, Darpan, Alive, Woman's Era, Exotica and Discover India. Mr. Singh is currently posted as Divisional Commissioner at Gaya in Bihar. Table Of Contents Some Common Queries About Crosswords Who can solve a crossword? What are crosswords? What are the main types of crosswords? How did it all begin?
Vivek Kumar Singh belongs to Class of ’96 of IITKanpur.Since then, he has been part of the IT revolution — travelling across the globe and working for various companies. He learned conscience and sensitiveness in the jungles of Jharkhand where he did his schooling, at Netarhat, a government residential public school, and a spell at Science College, Patna, made him a politically sensitive animal. Presently Vivek is based in Bangalore, India.