Something Strange

Today’s post is part one of a first-ever When Write Is Wrong two-parter.

Ooooooooh!

I know.

I’m going to give you today and tomorrow to solve the game pictured, readers, and on Friday I’ll point out why, after I puzzled over this puzzle, I found something puzzling.

Up & Down Words is a USA Today crossword-style game of linked two-word phrases. The second word in the answer to No. 1 is also the first word of the answer to No. 2, and so on. Let’s get down to business: a mock game to get you acclimated. Don’t slip up.

1. THE      ______
2. ______  ______
3. ______  ______
4. ______  ______
5. ______  ______
6. ______  ______
7. ______  BILL    

CLUES
1. 1985 blockbuster: Back to ____ ____
2. Income yet to come
3. Financial filing made by a public company
4. Student evaluation
5. Poker or gin rummy
6. Wheel of Fortune, for example
7. Advertising poster

Answers

1. THE FUTURE

2. FUTURE EARNINGS

3. EARNINGS REPORT

4. REPORT CARD

5. CARD GAME

6. GAME SHOW

7. SHOW BILL

All the blanks have been filled. You’ve worked your way from THE to BILL. You now get the gist of the game, right? Good. Solve the game pictured above. Find its error. I’ll be back in a couple of days to let you know why Up & Down Words has me worked up. Until then, settle down. It’s time to play … the waiting game.

P.S. Check out the answer to No. 1 in Friday’s puzzle. Great Scott!