Word search puzzles — level 1

Play today's puzzle

Level 1 is the gentlest kind of word search: every word hides across or down, always reading forward. Perfect for a first grid, for playing with kids, or for a relaxed break — mystery word included.

All our word search puzzles print out blank, each followed by its solution.

Free printable word search puzzles

Across and down, nothing else

Level 1 is the purest form of the game: every hidden word runs straight across or straight down, always reading forward. Your eye can sweep the grid line by line, then column by column — a calm, methodical hunt that always ends well.

A favorite with teachers and parents

Because there are no reversed or diagonal words, level 1 grids are the go-to format for young solvers: they reinforce left-to-right reading, spelling and letter recognition. Print a grid for quiet time, or play it together online — the leftover letters always hide one last mystery word to uncover.