Mark MacLachlan, a chemistry professor and Dean of Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC), has transformed his passion for crossword puzzles into a successful publishing venture. Over the years, MacLachlan has seen his puzzles featured in several major U.S. newspapers, including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.
MacLachlan began his crossword journey in 1999. What started as a leisurely activity soon sparked his curiosity about the puzzle-making process. “I wondered who makes these crossword puzzles? So, I looked into it and found that anybody can submit a crossword puzzle to the New York Times,” he shared in a recent interview.
His first submission occurred in 2007, but the path to publication was not immediate. After a series of rejections, MacLachlan finally achieved his goal in 2016 when his puzzle was published in the Los Angeles Times. “I worked harder for that one than anything else that is on my wall,” he joked about the framed puzzle that now adorns his office.
Since then, he has had an impressive total of 75 puzzles published, dedicating over 80 hours to each intricate creation. His process begins with developing a theme, often inspired by everyday observations and common phrases. “Once I have got a consistent theme, I’ll put that into the grid, fill it with black squares, and start putting words around it,” MacLachlan explained.
To ensure accessibility for solvers, he emphasizes the importance of using familiar words and phrases, stating, “You cannot have many obscure words; people should be able to solve the puzzle without having a crossword dictionary at their side.” He also mentioned the significance of what is known as a “revealer” in crossword design, which helps guide solvers to critical clues.
As the academic year approaches, MacLachlan prepares for a busy schedule but remains committed to his crossword pursuits. “I will probably dabble in some puzzles until the Christmas vacation and then I’ll have some dedicated time to work on my next ones,” he noted, showcasing his passion for both teaching and puzzle-making.
Mark MacLachlan’s journey from professor to published crossword creator highlights the intersection of academia and creative expression, inspiring others to explore their hobbies and interests outside of their professional lives.
