Easy cryptograms
Short, familiar proverbs with extra letters given — a friendly start.
Download Easy (PDF)
Free printables · no sign-up
Free printable cryptograms
Code-breaking puzzles in large print: every letter of a proverb or saying is swapped for another letter, and you work out the code. Three levels, one puzzle per page, answers with the source of each quote at the back.
Free to print for home, classroom and club use.
- 30 puzzles3 levels of 10
- Large printone per page
- Public domainproverbs and sayings
- Answerswith sources
Choose a set
How do you solve a cryptogram?
Each letter has been replaced by a different letter, and the same code is used all through one puzzle. Start with the letters already given, then look for one-letter words (A or I), common short words like THE and AND, and repeated patterns. Use the alphabet row at the bottom to keep track of the code.
What is the difference between easy, medium and hard?
Easy puzzles are short, familiar proverbs with more letters given. Medium puzzles give fewer letters. Hard puzzles are longer sayings with very few letters given.
Where do the quotes come from?
Traditional proverbs and sayings in the public domain; classic quotes are dated before 1930 and the source is printed with each answer.
Can I make my own?
Yes. These puzzles were made with the DT Labs cryptogram maker. Make your own themes and word lists, build a full book with answer keys, and export a KDP-ready PDF. Exports come with a commercial licence for KDP and Etsy.
Frequently asked questions
Are these cryptograms free?
Yes. Download and print as many copies as you like for home, classrooms, clubs and care homes. No account and no email needed.
Are they large print?
Yes. The puzzles use the large print setting, one puzzle per US Letter page, with room to write above each coded letter.
Are the answers included?
Yes. The decoded quotes and their sources are at the back of each PDF, four to a page.
Can I sell these cryptograms?
No — these PDFs are for printing and solving, not for resale. To sell cryptogram books, make your own with the free cryptogram maker, which comes with a commercial licence.