Creating a Crossword Puzzle

In this class assignment, we had to create a crossword puzzle using content from one of the curriculum areas from which we teach. I chose to create a crossword puzzle on the chapter in science my class was working on, weathering and erosion. I created the same crossword puzzle twice using two different tools, Microsoft Excel and a web based puzzle maker. This was my first time using Microsoft Excel. It was very interesting to use. The online instructions provided by the instructor were helpful. I didn't follow the instruction verbatim. I failed to chart out my puzzle on graph paper prior to constructing it on Excel. It took me about 1/2 hour to get used to the program and construct the crossword puzzle. It wasn't hard, just a little time consuming compared to using the web based puzzle maker.
In contrast to Microsoft Excel, I found the web based puzzle maker to be much more efficient. It was very quick and easy to use. All I had to do was type in the words and clues then click generate and my puzzle was done. It only took about 5 minutes to complete. I'd much rather use the web based tool. Ultimately, I think it will save you a lot more time when creating your puzzles.