UBC Professor Turns Crossword Hobby into Published Success

Mark MacLachlan, a chemistry professor and Dean of Science at the University of British Columbia, has successfully transformed his passion for crossword puzzles into a notable achievement in major U.S. newspapers. What began as a simple hobby has evolved into a prolific creative outlet, with MacLachlan publishing over 75 crossword puzzles in prestigious publications, including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.

In an interview with CityNews, MacLachlan shared that he started engaging with crossword puzzles around 1999. His curiosity about the creation process led him to discover that anyone can submit puzzles to the New York Times. This revelation marked the beginning of his journey as a cruciverbalist, a term used to describe those who create or solve crossword puzzles. His first submission occurred in 2007, though it took several attempts before he achieved his first published puzzle in the Los Angeles Times in 2016.

Reflecting on the accomplishment, MacLachlan stated, “I worked harder for that one than anything else that is on my wall,” as he pointed to the framed puzzle displayed in his office. His dedication to the craft is evident, as he often invests around 80 hours crafting each intricate puzzle, from conception to completion.

Crafting Puzzles with a Purpose

MacLachlan approaches crossword creation with a systematic method. He begins by identifying a central theme, often drawing inspiration from his surroundings or 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,” he explained. To aid in this process, he utilizes software that assists in word placement, ensuring that the puzzles remain accessible to solvers without requiring a specialized dictionary.

He emphasizes the importance of making puzzles enjoyable and solvable, stating, “You cannot have many obscure words; people should be able to solve the puzzle without having a crossword dictionary at their side.” This approach not only enhances the experience for solvers but also showcases his understanding of what makes a puzzle engaging.

MacLachlan’s work has garnered appreciation in the crossword community, and he continues to pursue his passion alongside his academic responsibilities. As the new school year approaches, he plans to balance his teaching duties with his love for puzzle creation. “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.

The intersection of MacLachlan’s academic career and his creative pursuits exemplifies how personal interests can lead to unexpected accomplishments. His journey from crossword enthusiast to published contributor highlights the potential for anyone to turn a hobby into a rewarding venture.