wsj crossword contest – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving the "wsj crossword contest" clue! Whether you're looking for a quick answer or a deeper understanding of this unique puzzle type, you've come to the right place. Dive in to find solutions across various lengths and gain insights to conquer future challenges.
Solutions for "wsj crossword contest" by Letter Count
11 Letters
METACONTEST: Refers to the hidden, overarching puzzle often found within the Wall Street Journal's weekly crossword, requiring solvers to extract a final answer from the completed grid.
7 Letters
CONTEST: The fundamental nature of the WSJ's weekly puzzle, inviting solvers to compete by submitting a final answer.
6 Letters
PUZZLE: A broad yet accurate description of the WSJ's offering, emphasizing the intellectual challenge it presents.
4 Letters
META: A common abbreviation or term used to describe the "meta-puzzle" aspect of the WSJ crossword, where the solution transcends the regular grid.
More About "wsj crossword contest"
The "wsj crossword contest" clue refers to the distinctive weekly crossword puzzle published by The Wall Street Journal. Unlike standard crosswords, the WSJ's version frequently incorporates a "meta-puzzle" or "contest" element. This means that after filling in the regular crossword grid, solvers must decipher an additional layer of meaning or a hidden theme to arrive at a final, overarching answer. This final answer is then submitted to the Journal by a specific deadline for a chance to win a prize, making it a true contest.
These meta-puzzles are renowned for their cleverness and often require a significant leap in logic or an unusual way of looking at the completed grid. They might involve finding a specific word or phrase based on the first letters of theme answers, a numerical progression, or an external piece of knowledge linked to the puzzle's title or theme. The challenge of the WSJ contest lies not just in solving the clues but in unraveling this meta-layer, which truly sets it apart in the world of crosswords.
Successfully solving a WSJ meta-puzzle brings a unique sense of accomplishment, combining linguistic skill with deductive reasoning. For many solvers, it's the highlight of their puzzling week, offering a rewarding intellectual pursuit that extends beyond simply filling in squares.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Title: The title of a WSJ crossword often holds a crucial hint for the meta-puzzle. Don't skip it; it might be the key to unlocking the hidden solution.
- Identify Theme Entries: Pay close attention to the longest answers or those explicitly marked as theme entries. The meta-puzzle typically revolves around these, whether it's their content, their starting letters, or how they interact.
- Look for External Clues: Sometimes the meta-answer requires knowledge outside the puzzle itself, like a famous quote, a geographical fact, or a common phrase. Be prepared to think beyond the grid.
- Re-read the Meta-Clue: If there's a specific instruction for the meta-answer (e.g., "The answer to this week's contest is a four-letter word..."), read it carefully and repeatedly. Every word can be significant.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WSJ crossword contest?
The WSJ crossword contest refers to the Wall Street Journal's weekly crossword puzzle, which typically includes a 'meta-puzzle' or 'contest' element. Solvers complete the main grid and then use clues embedded within the puzzle's answers or theme to find a final, overarching answer, which they can submit by a deadline for a chance to win prizes.
How do I solve a WSJ meta-puzzle?
Solving a WSJ meta-puzzle usually involves more than just filling in the grid. Look for commonalities or patterns among the themed entries, specific wording in the clue for the meta-answer, or a subtle instruction hidden in the puzzle's title. It often requires lateral thinking and careful analysis of the finished grid's components.
Where can I find past WSJ contest answers?
Past WSJ crossword contest answers and explanations are often archived on various crossword-solving websites and forums. Some dedicated puzzle blogs also provide detailed write-ups of previous meta-solutions. The official Wall Street Journal crossword page might also offer archives, though access could be subscription-dependent.