Word Search Generator

Generate a word search from any topic or list. Choose size and difficulty, then play online or print the puzzle and answer key.

The PuzzleCraft word search generator hides your words in a grid and fills the gaps with random letters, in the directions you choose. It's quick enough to make a fresh puzzle every day.

How it works: type a topic into the box above, or paste a spelling list, and PuzzleCraft builds a word list for you. Choose a 10ร—10, 15ร—15 or 20ร—20 grid and a difficulty. Easy hides words across and down only, Medium adds diagonals, and Hard also runs words backwards, so the same list can suit a five-year-old or a puzzle fan.

Play online by clicking and dragging across the letters, with found words crossed off the list as you go and a timer to beat, or print a clean sheet with the word bank underneath plus a separate answer key with every word circled. You can save any sheet as a PDF from the print window and send a share link so friends, students or family can play the very same grid.

Because the filler letters are random, regenerate as many times as you like until you find a grid you love.

Ready-made printable word searches

Frequently asked questions

Can words overlap?

Yes, words can share letters where they cross, just like in a printed puzzle book.

Will long words fit?

Words longer than the grid are skipped, and you'll see which ones. Choose a larger grid to include them.

Can I use my own words?

Yes. Paste a list with one word per line (add a clue after a dash for crosswords), or add words one at a time. You can also edit any AI suggestion.

Can I print the puzzle and the answer key?

Yes. Every puzzle has a Print button and a separate Answer Key button. Choose "Save as PDF" in the print window to download a PDF.

Is PuzzleCraft really free?

Yes. Making, playing, printing and sharing puzzles is free. A free account just lets you save puzzles to your library and keep a daily streak.