Deb Amlen

Deb Amlen is a columnist in the Games section of The New York Times. She assists readers in solving the Times Crossword and writes articles about games, puzzles, and language. Her focus is on guiding readers through crossword clues and themes to improve their skills. Amlen has been published in The Washington Post, The New York Sun, The Onion's A.V. Club, Bust Magazine among others. She was hired by The Times in 2011 to add humor and build an audience for the Games portfolio. Through her columns, videos, speaking engagements, features and a trans-Atlantic cruise later, she has managed to create a devoted following who help her spread the word that anyone can learn to solve their puzzles. Amlen adheres to The Times' ethics and values policies and does not accept gifts or favors from individuals who might figure into her reporting. She is known for her work on 'wordplay,' the crossword column, where she breaks down clues and themes for readers in order to help them improve their skills. Amlen has also interviewed notable figures while identifying herself as a reporter for The Times.