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How to Make Your Own Free Printable Word Search Puzzle

There are many websites online that allow you to make free, printable word finder puzzles. These are fun, versatile activities for children, often used by parents, educators, and librarians. Pair it with a classroom unit or a special program, or use words relating to your child's special hobbies. Word finders are best between 15 x 15 and 40 x 40 letters in size, and can often be structured in varying degrees of complexity. Don't make your word find too hard or too simple for your audience.

Things You'll Need

Word list
Puzzle-making program

Instructions

- 1
  Create a list of words you plan to include in your word search puzzle. Try to include at least 10 words for a small puzzle, but no more than 25 for a large puzzle. Some programs will limit you to a lower word count.
- 2
  Visit a free, online puzzlemaking website, such as DiscoveryEducation.com, Teach-nology.com, or Puzzle-Maker.com.
- 3
  Follow the steps for the generator of your choice. Options may include specifying a title, specifying the dimensions of your finished puzzle, determining frequency of letter-sharing, whether or not the output is in uppercase or lowercase letters, and more.
- 4
  Enter each of the words you wish to include in your word search. Though some programs will not limit the number of words you can include, you will be limited by the size of the paper you will print to.
- 5
  Generate your puzzle by clicking on the button which activates its creation. Print and check your word puzzle carefully. Do not close the web page with your puzzle yet.
- 6
  Once you are satisfied with your puzzle, copy and paste the puzzle into a word processing program. Modify the placement on the page, your font size, and your font as desired and make any extra additions, such as clip art or information. Print your copies and fill out at least one master answer sheet.

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