US States Word Fill-In
Fit 15 US state names into the grid
Includes puzzle + answer key — free instant PDF
What is a Word Fill-In?
A word fill-in (also called a Kriss-Kross) gives you a grid of empty boxes and a list of words. You must figure out where each word fits based on its letter count and where it must intersect with other words.
How to solve it
Start with the longest or most unusual words — they have fewer possible placements. Work outward from confirmed intersections. Every word in the list must be used exactly once.
Who is this for?
Fill-in puzzles appeal to fans of crosswords who want the logic challenge without needing to guess clue answers. Great for adults and older students who enjoy spatial reasoning.
About this puzzle
Free printable US states word fill-in — place 15 state names into the crossword-style grid. Educational geography puzzle, instant PDF download with answer key.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Format: US Letter PDF with answer key
- Free to download, print, and use
- Commercial use allowed for KDP publishers
Step-by-step: solving the US States Word Fill-In
- Print the puzzle. Download and print the free word fill-in (Kriss-Kross) PDF — the grid and word list are on page one.
- Start with unusual lengths. Find the longest or most unusual-length word. It usually has only one place it can fit in the grid.
- Work from intersections. Each placed word constrains the next. Use the shared letters at intersections to confirm placements.
- Cross out used words. Every word in the list is used exactly once. Cross words off the list as you place them.
- Verify with the key. Compare your finished grid to the answer key on the back page.
Frequently asked questions
Is every word in the list used?›
How is this different from a crossword?›
Is an answer key included?›
More free Around the World puzzles
Countries, capitals, landforms, and the geography of our planet.