OneTaskBy Tim King · Updated
Word Search Maker
Choose Grid Size and Directions, Then Print the Puzzle and Answer Key
OneTask is free, with no sign-up, and built by one person.
If this tool saved you time, a coffee helps keep new ones coming.
How the Word Search Maker works
This word search maker hides your own words in a printable grid. Type a list, pick a size and how tricky the directions should be, and a fresh puzzle appears with the word list underneath. Tick "Show answers" to highlight every hidden word for the answer key.
How the word search maker places words
Longer words go in first, because they are hardest to fit. Each word tries random spots and directions, and the maker prefers spots where it can share a letter with a word already placed, which makes the grid denser and the hunt harder. The leftover squares are filled with random letters drawn in roughly the proportions they appear in English, so the filler does not give the words away.
Choosing directions
Easy runs words left to right and top to bottom only, which suits young readers. Medium adds the diagonals. Hard also allows every direction backwards, the classic puzzle-book style.
Grid size
A 10×10 grid holds about eight short words. For a long list or long words, go up to 18 or 20. If a word cannot be placed it is shown struck through under the grid and left off the printout, so make the grid bigger or trim the list.
FAQ
How many words can I hide?
Up to 40 words, each between 2 and the grid size in letters. In practice, a grid holds about one word for every eight to ten squares before words start failing to fit, so a 15×15 grid suits around 20 to 25 words.
Can I use phrases or names?
Yes. Spaces, hyphens and punctuation are removed before hiding, so "sea lion" is hidden as SEALION, which is the usual convention in printed word searches. The list under the grid shows the words as you typed them.
Why does the puzzle change when I edit the list?
The grid is rebuilt from scratch whenever the words, size or directions change. Once you are happy with the list, press New puzzle to try other layouts and print the one you like, then tick "Show answers" and print again for the key.
See also: all Puzzle Makers tools, Scrabble & Board Games, Puzzle Solvers, Anagrams & Rhymes.
Related tools
Crossword Maker
Turn your words and clues into a printable crossword.
Word Scramble Worksheet Maker
Printable unscramble-the-word worksheets from your own list.
Sudoku Generator
Printable sudoku from easy to expert, with answer keys.
Cryptogram Maker
Turn a quote into a printable letter-swap code puzzle.
"As Seen In" Strip
Build a muted "as seen in" row of press and media logos.