Book excerpt: The New York Times is the gold standard of crossword puzzles. Drawing from the top puzzle constructors in the nation, the Times puzzles are considered the cleverest, most engaging and at times, trickiest puzzles of all. This guide will help puzzlers of all skill levels improve and enjoy the New York Times crossword. Along with helpful discussions and hints, every puzzle in How to Conquer the New York Times Crossword Puzzle is annotated with solving tips and insight from veteran constructors and solver to help you master the nation's #1 puzzle! This volume includes: *60 Times puzzles from easy Monday to devilish Saturday and giant Sunday, each with helpful tips and clues *Lists of most common crossword words, clues, and ways constructors try to trick you*Step-by-step solving instructions provide readers with instruction on how to tackle puzzles of every difficulty level*How to construct a puzzle: A chapter offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into making a great crossword *Introduction from puzzle great Will Shortz, crossword editor for The New York Times