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Readers Respond: Can Solving Puzzles Make You Smarter?

Responses: 11

By , About.com Guide

From the article: Free Crossword Puzzles
Studies have shown that "mental aerobics", such as solving crossword puzzles, are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Exercising the brain helps stave off senility and improves memory. But, can they actually help increase your IQ? So far, 85% of responders believe they do. What do you think?

yes

it can also create better patience through trial and error,some other types of puzzles teaches you to not over think things by hiding them in the most obvious places
—Guest bobbeatrixz

Yes

I got this crossword book an I been doin 10-15 puzzles a day. It's so addicting. An I get better and better at finding the words quicker. Plus it expanded my vocabulary
—Guest Sweets

yes

I do think logic puzzles and the like can increase knowledge and thought processing. It could also increase attention span
—Guest Asmira

i'm sure of it

i have been doing all kinds of logic puzzle for 3 days and i find that i kind think much further,other possibility's and so on
—Guest blaziken799

yes

yes it teaches u how to think n that boosts creativity
—Guest puzzler

YES

Crossword puzzles expand your vocabulary. I have learned MANY new words doing them.
—Guest plclemo

Smartness

You must be smart BEFORE solving puzzles, but WORKING on puzzles develops your brain and memory and of course is entertining.
—Guest wtmac

Smarter?

You may not become smarter, but you do learn more, especially if your mind is a trivia trap!
—Guest Carolyn

Like With Most Parts Of Our Body...

use it or lose it and using it strenthens it. --I don't feel smart finishing a crossword, I feel stupid when I can't. lol
—addiefleur

can solving puzzles make you smarter?

for me, yes it does and helps reinforce what I already know. Lot of the crosswords I do, and if I am stumped on the spelling of the word I do look it up.
—dancepederson

Yes!

After many years of doing all kinds of puzzles and word games, I am definitely smarter. I know what an erne and an anoa are ;( Actually, I'm not sure if they make you smarter but they do exercise the brain and that has to be a good thing, right?
—psezulz

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Can Solving Puzzles Make You Smarter?

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