During our January-March 2008 Solving Ladder, there were two Solving Contest puzzles for which "cook" points were awarded, in accordance with our Solving Ladder Rules.  Until now, our definition of a "cook" was simply: any interchange of two or more letters forming valid words other than the intent.  For example, FOX/BEAR might work as BOX/FEAR if the F and B could be freely moved.  Given the nature of Alpha Sleuth® puzzles, it is difficult to guarantee that only one combination of letter placements (the intent) will result in a set of valid words.

 

So... beginning with the April 6, 2008 Solving Contest, the definition of a "cook" will be:

In other words, a "solution" (other than the intent) that would not suffice as a composed Alpha Sleuth® will not be credited as a "cook".

 

Please contact us with any questions or comments.  Our Introduction page explains some of the terminology used above.