Easy cryptograms for beginners

Five short proverbs in code, each with two letters already filled in for you.

Loading the puzzle…

Tap a blank, then a letter.

What makes these easy

They are short, they are proverbs you may already know, and each one starts with its two most common letters in place, marked with a dot. Puzzle 1 starts with A and E filled in. Once a few words are half-filled, the proverb usually jumps out.

Working puzzle 1

The code word ZMPGB appears twice, and so does MHJ. With E and A given, MHJ reads A _ _: try AND. Then the one-letter word M is already A, and ZMPGB reads EA _ _ _. Say "early to bed" aloud and you are most of the way there.

Questions people ask

What is the easiest way to start a cryptogram?

Start with one-letter words (A or I), then a three-letter word that repeats, which is often THE or AND.

Why are some letters already filled in?

To give you a start. They are marked with a dot, and they don't count as hints in your result.

Can I get more help?

Tap Hint to reveal one more letter everywhere it appears.

What should I try after these?

Try the daily puzzle on the home page, which has no letters filled in, or the hard cryptograms when you want a challenge.

More cryptograms