Literacy & activities
Word search maker
Create a printable word search puzzle from your own word list. Choose the grid size, allow or disable diagonal and backwards words, include a word bank and answer key, and download the result as an A4 or US Letter PDF.
Type your words, preview the puzzle instantly, then download the PDF — no account needed.
Live preview
How it works
- Type or paste your word list, one word per line.
- Pick the grid size and which directions words may run.
- Download the PDF with an optional word bank and answer key.
Using these worksheets in teaching
Word searches build word-shape recognition and give meaningful repeated exposure to topic vocabulary or spelling lists. For early readers, keep words forwards-only and horizontal or vertical; diagonal and backwards words suit confident readers. Asking students to write a sentence for each found word turns a filler activity into vocabulary practice.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use my own words?
- Yes. Type up to 30 of your own words — spelling lists, topic vocabulary or names of things your class is studying — or start from a ready-made list.
- How do I make the puzzle easier or harder?
- Smaller grids with forwards-only words are easiest. Turning on diagonal and backwards words, or growing the grid, makes the search harder.
- Is there an answer key?
- Yes. The answer key page repeats the grid with the hidden words highlighted, so marking takes seconds.
- Will the same settings always produce the same puzzle?
- Every puzzle has a seed. The same words, settings and seed reproduce the identical grid, and regenerate gives you a fresh arrangement.
- Which paper sizes are supported?
- A4 and US Letter, in portrait orientation, with print-safe margins designed for black-and-white printing.
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Last reviewed: July 2026. Worksheet content is generated by deterministic algorithms and covered by automated correctness tests — no AI-generated answers.