Word Search Generator
Words are placed longest first, and spaces and symbols are removed, so "ice cream" becomes ICECREAM. Backwards and diagonal words make the puzzle harder, and you can print it.
How to use
- Type your words, one per line or separated by commas. Spaces and symbols are removed, so ice cream becomes ICECREAM.
- Choose a grid size and which directions words may run. Backwards and diagonal words make the puzzle harder.
- Press Generate for a new layout, use Show answers to check it, then Print to get a page with only the grid and the word list.
How it works
Words are placed longest first, because long words have the fewest places they can fit. For each word the generator lists every start square and direction where the word fits inside the grid, then picks one of those at random.
A word may cross another only where both share the same letter at that square. If some words cannot be placed, the whole grid is rebuilt up to 30 times and the layout that fits the most words is kept. Any word still left out is listed so you can shorten the list or pick a bigger grid.
Empty squares are filled with letters A to Z chosen uniformly at random from your browser's cryptographic random source, so filler letters give no hint about where the words are.
Difficulty by settings
| Level | Grid | Directions |
|---|---|---|
| Easy (young kids) | 10 x 10 | Across and down only |
| Medium | 12 x 12 or 15 x 15 | Across, down and diagonal |
| Hard | 15 x 15 or 20 x 20 | All directions including backwards |
FAQ
How many words fit?
It depends on word length and grid size. As a rough guide, a 10 by 10 grid holds about 8 to 10 medium words and a 15 by 15 grid about 15 to 20. Allowing more directions makes it easier to fit more.
Why was a word left out?
Either it is longer than the grid, or there was no free spot where it could fit after placing the other words. Try a bigger grid, allow more directions, or remove a few words.
Can I use letters other than A to Z?
No. Accents, digits, spaces and symbols are removed so every square holds one plain capital letter.
Are my words sent anywhere?
No. The puzzle is made entirely in your browser and your word list never leaves your device.