ABSTRACT
The crossword puzzle task is discussed as it relates to the question of how words are retrieved from lexical memory. Arguments are made concerning the effectiveness of semantic, orthographic, phonetic, and thematic cues. It is suggested that cues are effective in two ways: they provide information in terms of which candidate solution words can be evaluated, and they directly facilitate the search for solution words. It is further suggested that if “search” is to be used as an explanatory concept, at least two types of search processes must be assumed, one a rapid parallel process that occurs below the level of awareness and the other a slow serial process that is open to introspection.
