Paper size: Abbr. - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Paper size: Abbr.", is a classic example of a straightforward definition clue that's common in early-week crosswords. The key to solving it quickly lies in recognizing the signal at the end: "Abbr.". Let's break down how to approach this simple but essential clue type.

Clue Analysis

The clue has two distinct parts:

1. "Paper size": This is the definition. The puzzle is asking for a term related to the dimensions of a sheet of paper.
2. "Abbr.": This is the instruction. It tells us that the answer is not the full word, but its shortened, abbreviated form.

So, the task is to think of a common paper size and then figure out its standard abbreviation, which will fit into the grid.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, a simple brainstorming process is most effective:

1. List the possibilities: What are the most common paper sizes you know? Your mind might jump to Letter, Legal, Tabloid, or perhaps the international standard A4.
2. Apply the "Abbr." filter: Now, consider the abbreviations for those terms. Letter becomes LTR. Legal becomes LGL. Tabloid might be TBLD. A4 is already short.
3. Check the grid: At this point, you look at the number of squares available for the answer. If it's a three-letter slot, LTR and LGL are excellent candidates. A single crossing letter would likely be enough to distinguish between them. For instance, if the middle letter is a 'T', you have your answer.

This systematic approach--define, brainstorm, filter--makes quick work of abbreviation clues.

Background Context

The answer refers to Letter size paper, which has standard dimensions of 8.5 by 11 inches (215.9 by 279.4 mm). It is the default paper size for most business and academic documents in the United States, Canada, and parts of Latin America.

This standard contrasts with the ISO 216 standard, which includes the A4 size and is used by the rest of the world. The abbreviation LTR is universally recognized in software like word processors and in the settings for printers and copiers.

Conclusion

"Paper size: Abbr." is a perfect example of a crossword staple. It tests common knowledge and the ability to spot key indicators like "Abbr.". Once you train yourself to see these tags, clues like this become welcome and speedy entries in your grid, helping you build a foundation to solve the trickier clues around them.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think of the settings you might choose on a printer or photocopier.
2. Hint 2: This paper size is standard in North America, contrasting with the A4 standard used in many other countries.
3. Hint 3: It's not 'legal' size, but the other most common option.
4. Hint 4: The full word for this size is a type of correspondence you might send or receive.