[More info below] - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "[More info below]", is a classic example of a crossword puzzle clue that directly describes a common instruction or annotation. The answer is a familiar phrase, often condensed into a single word for the grid, that serves the exact function described by the clue.

Clue Analysis

The clue is presented in brackets, which often suggests that the text itself is a label, a sign, or a direct quote. In this case, "[More info below]" is a directive you might see in a document, email, or presentation. It tells the reader that supplementary details can be found further down. The puzzle is asking for a common term that conveys this same message.

The answer, SEENOTE, is a straightforward interpretation. It's a compound of "See" and "Note," literally instructing someone to consult a note for more information. This type of clue-to-answer relationship is very direct, making it a satisfying solve once you see the connection.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a clue like this, a good first step is to consider the context. Where would you see the phrase "[More info below]"?

1. Contextual Brainstorming: Think about editing, writing, and document review. What are the common shorthand phrases or instructions used? You might think of things like ibid., cf., N.B., or instructions like "check source," "add citation," or "see footnote."

2. Literal Interpretation: Take the clue at face value. It's asking you to find a term that means "look for more information." The most direct way to say that is "See the note" or "See note."

3. Crossword Conventions: Experienced solvers will recognize that short, common phrases are often squished into a single word for the grid. "I Owe You" becomes IOUS, and in this case, "See Note" becomes SEENOTE. If you have a few crossing letters, this construction becomes much easier to spot.

Background Context

Annotations like SEENOTE are part of a long tradition of marginalia and editorial marks. Before the age of digital comments and tracked changes, editors and collaborators would write instructions directly onto manuscripts. Phrases like "see note," "stet" (let it stand), and "dele" (delete) were the tools of the trade. While the medium has changed, the need for these concise directives remains, and they have become a staple in the crossword lexicon.

Conclusion

This clue is a great example of a simple, direct definition that rewards practical, real-world knowledge. By thinking about the context of writing and editing, and by being aware of the crossword convention of combining words, solvers can quickly arrive at the answer. It's a clean and fair clue that feels good to solve.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think about instructions you might find in a document or manuscript.
2. Hint 2: This phrase directs a reader to an annotation for further details.
3. Hint 3: It's a two-word phrase often written as one word in crosswords.
4. Hint 4: It's similar to saying 'Refer to the footnote' or 'Check the comment'.

The answer is: SEENOTE