A pre-filled answer in a crossword puzzle, often provided as a starting point or hint, can be described as an initial entry. For example, a puzzle featuring historical figures might offer “Lincoln” as a starting point for the “16th U.S. President” clue.
These initial entries serve several purposes. They can simplify the solving process, particularly for beginners or with challenging puzzles. They can also introduce themes or topics within the puzzle, providing solvers with context or a frame of reference. Furthermore, they can be strategically placed to interconnect various sections of the grid, facilitating completion. The practice of including pre-filled answers likely evolved alongside crossword puzzles themselves, as constructors experimented with ways to balance difficulty and engagement.
