Ever stared blankly at a crossword puzzle, feeling like the answers are locked in a secret code? We’ve all been there! Sometimes, the trickiest clues seem impossible, but with a bit of strategy and some clever thinking, you can crack even the toughest ones.
One common type of clue you’ll encounter is the “follow from” variety. These clues aren’t about direct synonyms; they hint at a logical consequence or a result of something else. Let’s explore how to decode these brain-teasing puzzles and become a crossword champion!
Decoding the “Follow From” Crossword Clue
The key to solving “follow from” clues is understanding the relationship between the clue’s wording and the answer. The clue describes a situation or action, and the answer is something that logically results from that. Think cause and effect, or premise and conclusion.
Synonyms and associated terms are vital! For example, if the clue is “Follow from eating too much,” the answer might be something like “INDIGESTION” or “STOMACHACHE.” Consider what naturally comes after the situation presented in the clue.
Pay close attention to the tense of the verbs used in the clue. Is it present tense, past tense, or future tense? Matching the tense in your answer will help narrow down the possibilities and ensure the answer grammatically fits the clue.
Consider the length of the answer. Crossword puzzles are very specific. The number of spaces for each answer is given, which can give you an idea of the length of the words. If a word that comes to mind from a clue is not the length of the provided space, you will know it’s incorrect!
Also, look for common crossword puzzle words or abbreviations. Certain words and phrases appear frequently in crosswords, so familiarizing yourself with these can be extremely helpful. Learning common roots and affixes will help boost your vocabulary.
Solving crosswords is a fantastic mental exercise and a fun way to expand your vocabulary. So, next time you encounter a “follow from” clue, remember these tips, take a deep breath, and enjoy the challenge. Happy puzzling!