Cross-Number Puzzle Maker
Solve arithmetic equations across and down. Answer digits interlock seamlessly into a numbered crossword grid. Play online with instant error checking, generate brand-new problems, or download high-resolution printable PDFs with answer keys.
Custom Math Problem Maker
13 equations • Minimum 2 digits per answerCustomize or add math problems. Digits in the answers automatically interlock into a crossword grid.
Across
Down
What is a Cross-Number Puzzle?
A cross-number puzzle (also known as a math crossword or cross-math puzzle) works just like a traditional word crossword, but with numbers instead of letters. Each clue is a mathematical problem or equation (such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, or order of operations). The numerical answer is written one digit per cell into the interlocking grid.
1. Solve the Clue
Work out the math equation for an Across or Down clue to obtain the multi-digit answer.
2. Interlock the Digits
Enter each digit into the numbered squares. Crossing clues share digits to verify your math!
3. Check & Print
Use the built-in answer checker online, or print clean worksheets for homework, tests, or classroom math centers.
Explore the Elementary Math & Number Sense Sequence
A structured progression following the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) framework — from part-whole number bonds to inverse operations, multi-digit arithmetic, and algebraic functions.
Cross-Number Puzzle
Math calculations interlocking crossword
Learn How to Play, Solve & Teach Cross-Number Puzzle Maker
Elementary Math Mastery: A Guide to Number Bonds, Fact Families & Number Pyramids
A complete parent and teacher guide to mastering early mental math. Learn how number bonds, fact families, and number pyramids build deep conceptual numeracy from kindergarten through 4th grade.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cross-number puzzle?+
A cross-number puzzle (or math crossword) is a grid puzzle where the answers are numbers and the clues are math equations. Digits are entered into intersecting cells across and down, allowing solvers to self-check calculations where equations cross.
Is the cross-number puzzle maker free?+
Yes. Generate, customize, play interactively online, and download high-resolution PDF printables with complete answer keys 100% free with no sign-up.
Can I enter my own custom math problems?+
Yes. Click 'Custom Problems' to add, remove, or modify any math problems and answers. Our interlocking crossword engine will automatically weave the digits into a numbered grid.
What grade levels are cross-number puzzles good for?+
Our presets cover elementary addition and subtraction (grades 2–4), multiplication and division (grades 3–5), fractions and percentages (grades 4–6), and order of operations / PEMDAS (grades 5–8).
Can I print copies for my whole classroom?+
Yes. Click 'Preview & Download' to generate clean US Letter or A4 PDFs complete with student worksheets and a separate teacher answer key.