Word Search Maker
Type your words, choose the grid size and how tricky to make it, and get a puzzle to print with the word list underneath. Tick the answers box to see where every word is hidden.
Worked examples
A small puzzle
LONDON, LEEDS, BATH, YORK, DERBY, OXFORD
A grid with all six words hidden and listed underneath
Longest words are placed first, so OXFORD and LONDON are placed before BATH.
About Word Search Maker
A word search made from your own words is a good way to practise spelling lists, learn new vocabulary or make a party game that fits the theme. Type your words, choose how big the grid should be and how tricky to make it, and the puzzle is made at once. Print it, with the word list underneath.
Words are placed longest first, in random positions and directions, and may cross where their letters match. The easy setting hides words across and down only. Medium adds diagonals, and hard allows every direction, including backwards. Spaces and punctuation are removed, so ICE CREAM becomes ICECREAM. The empty squares are filled with random letters. If a word does not fit it is left out, and the page tells you which one so you can choose a bigger grid. Tick Show the answers to see where each word is hidden.
How to use Word Search Maker
- Type your words, one on each line or separated by commas.
- Choose the grid size and how tricky the puzzle should be.
- Look over the puzzle, and press Make a new puzzle if you want a different layout.
- Press Print, and tick Show the answers if you want an answer sheet.
Common uses
- Spelling and vocabulary practice for school
- A themed puzzle for a birthday or a wedding table
- A quiet activity for children on a trip
- A team building puzzle with company or project words
Frequently asked questions
How big should the grid be?
Make it at least as large as your longest word, and bigger if you have many words. A grid of 15 by 15 suits about 10 to 15 words of normal length, and 20 by 20 or more suits long lists.
Why was a word left out?
A word that is too long for the grid, or that could not be placed after many tries because the grid was already full, is left out. The page lists the words that were dropped.
What happens to spaces and capital letters?
Capitals do not matter, and spaces, hyphens and other punctuation are removed. A word needs at least two letters and must fit in the grid.
Can I get the same puzzle again?
Each puzzle is random, so pressing the button gives a new layout. Print the one you like before making another.
How do I print the answers?
Tick Show the answers so the hidden words are shaded, then press Print. Print the puzzle first without the answers for the players.