
                        XWord (v1.6) by JJO Software
                                December 1988


     PURPOSE

     XWord is a fast, flexible and compact menu-driven crossword puzzle
     tool box for the IBM PC and compatibles. While easy to use, it is
     intended for serious crossword puzzle creators.

     RELEASE NOTES

     This release (#2) supports color monitors, reduces minimum memory
     requirements and cleans up some anomalies found with some of the
     screens.

     FEATURES

     1. A define function permits entry of puzzle title and size, from
        15x15 (NY Times daily) to 23x23 (NY Times Sunday). The default
        is 21x21.

     2. By means of the cursor, words may be entered in any order and in
        any location of the puzzle grid; and, cursor speed is adjustable.

     3. Words may be rubbed out (erased) from any location; but, they
        are saved to a "move" list and can be recovered and placed in
        another location.

     4. The word lists "across," "down" and "move" and clues may be
        viewed at any time.

     5. Clues need not be entered at the time words are entered into the
        puzzle grid. They may be entered and edited whenever it is
        convenient to do so.

     6. A complete set of printed materials is produced: puzzle blank,
        list of clues and puzzle solution. Word numbers, blanks and
        "blocks" are automatically inserted.

     7. All puzzle information, including the "move" list, is saved to a
        file. Puzzle size is set and words entered automatically when
        a puzzle file file is loaded.


     8. For safety and ease of use, functions are interlocked to
        prevent inadvertent loss of work. In addition, you are beeped
        when attempting an illegal operation.


     SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

     System: Any member of the IBM PC or PS/2 family, or compatible,
     with DOS 2.1, or later.

     Memory: 70 kb (minimum) to 100 kb (if available), over and above
     DOS and any resident programs.

     Video: XWord does not require graphics and has been run with IBM
     VGA, EGA, mono and CGA adapters, and a Hercules adapter. A menu
     function permits color/mono toggling for the best display.

     Printer: For the puzzle blanks, an IBM ProPrinter or one which
     prints the IBM graphics character set is required; otherwise, any
     printer will do.


     RUNNING XWORD

     The files XWord.Exe and XWord.Txt, along with any sample files,
     should be in the current (logged) directory. To run XWord, at the
     system prompt type Xword. A screen containing a title and copyright
     block and a main menu will appear. XWord is not case sensitive, so
     all entries may be in upper or lower case as preferred. Functions
     only appear on the menu when appropriate and are selected by
     typing one of the letters, as follows:

     C)lues: View, add or edit clues for words already entered into the
             current puzzle grid. You may enter or replace clues, or
             simply scroll through the word lists.

     D)efine: Create a new puzzle definition, i.e., title and size.

     E)dit: Invokes the XWord editor which places the current puzzle
            grid on the screen and permits words to be entered or rubbed
            out, in any order and in any location (see XWord Editor).

     I)nfo: Displays this file, if present in the current directory.

     L)oad: Load a puzzle file from disk. A definition record in the
            file permits the puzzle to be automatically sized and titled.
            NOTE: Puzzle files are not ASCII files.

     N)ame: Name|rename the current puzzle.

     P)uzzle: View|print (optional) the current puzzle blank, solution
              (completed puzzle) and numbered list of clues.

     S)ave: Save a puzzle file to disk, i.e., its definition record and
            three word lists (across, down and move).

     V)ideo: Toggle color on/off for best effect. The XWord title block
             text will be visible when video is set correctly.

     W)ord: View|print (optional) the current word lists, across, down
            and move.

     eX)it: Quit. You will be cautioned if changes to the current
            puzzle have not been saved.


     XWORD EDITOR

     Invoked from the main menu via "E," the editor is the XWord
     engine. Upon entry to the editor, the current puzzle contents, if
     any, are displayed. The active keys are:

     Cursor: four (4) arrow keys used to position the cursor on the
             puzzle grin.

     Rate: the numeric keys (1..8) may be used at any time to set cursor
           speed (advance). When set greater than 1, you may not be able
           to reach all edges of the grid.

     Insert: the + key is used to insert a word at the current location.
             You will be prompted to: (1) specify the direction (across
             or down) with the arrow keys and (2) enter the word.

     Rubout: the - key is used to remove a word from the grid to the
             move list. You will be prompted for direction, only.

     Move: the * key is used to insert a word from the move list at the
           current cursor position. You will be prompted for direction.
           The move list is then displayed for selection of the word to
           be placed on the grid.

           NOTE: During insert, rubout and move, the function may be
           aborted via the <Esc> key or by entering an empty word.

     Exit: use <Enter> alone to leave the editor and return to the main
         menu.

     The editor performs checking that words will fit within the grid if
     inserted at the prescribed location and direction. If not, you are
     beeped and the operation is aborted.


     REGISTRATION

     Communications from all XWord users will be accepted and answered
     by mail or via CompuServe (73407, 550). However, registered users
     will be given a daytime phone number which may be used to discuss
     upgrades and for technical support. To register, send a $20 check
     or money order to:

                               JJO Software
                            174 Westover Court
                             Delran, NJ 08075

                                   ***
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