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Theme Square #s

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zwheels:
Hi all,
I'm new (to the site and the pass time) and was wondering what the deal is with the number of squares dedicated to a theme. I've seen 35-40... is that just okay? really good? this may be weird, but is there some sort of scale for such a number like <30 = bad
30-35 = fine,
35-45 = ideal and
45+ = great?
just wondering...

Doorbell:
No, there's no scale here, since the number of squares depends directly on the theme.  For example, a frequently occuring theme pattern is three 15-letter entries, for a total of 45.  Another frequent theme pattern is four 10-letter entries for a total of 40.  Both are fine -- but the theme length determines the number of squares. 

Below 35 is poor -- for one thing, it would be hard for the solver to identify the theme.  But there may be terrific fantastic themes where 35 or below might be acceptable -- better be a darned good puzzle, though.  Above +45 is nice -- five 15-letter theme entries, for example.  But as well as a good theme, a puzzle needs to have good fill.  The longer the theme, the more constrains you have on the fill.

Doorbell:

--- Quote from: Doorbell on October 05, 2009, 12:41:47 PM ---No, there's no scale here, since the number of squares depends directly on the theme.  For example, a frequently occuring theme pattern is three 15-letter entries, for a total of 45.  Another frequent theme pattern is four 10-letter entries for a total of 40.  Both are fine -- but the theme determines the number of squares. 

Below 35 is poor -- for one thing, it would be hard for the solver to identify the theme.  But there may be terrific fantastic themes where 35 or below might be acceptable -- better be a darned good puzzle, though.  Above +45 is nice -- five 15-letter theme entries, for example.  But as well as a good theme, a puzzle needs to have good fill.  The longer the theme, the more constrains you have on the fill.

--- End quote ---

zwheels:
very helpful, thanks!

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