What makes a cryptic clue fair?
A setter’s checklist that doubles as a solver’s debugging tool.
One definition, one route
A fair clue has a clear definition and wordplay that reaches the same answer independently. It may be playful, but it should not rely on an unindicated spelling change or obscure reference without a signpost.
Indicators must do work
Use an indicator close to the operation it describes. Avoid stacking several words that could each indicate the same operation; ambiguity is fun in the surface and frustrating in the parse.
Test it cold
Give the clue to someone who has not seen the answer. Ask where they got stuck, then revise the smallest phrase that caused the problem. Fairness emerges in solving, not in intention.
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