nonpuzzling

Nonpuzzling is a term used in puzzle-focused online communities to describe content that is not itself a puzzle. On puzzle-oriented platforms, the term signals that a post does not present a solvable riddle, game, or challenge.

Content typically considered nonpuzzling includes meta discussions about site guidelines, explanations or analyses of solved puzzles, tutorials on solving techniques, historical overviews of puzzle genres, announcements about community events, and general-interest articles related to puzzles. The label helps users distinguish between material designed to be solved and content that serves educational, organizational, or cultural purposes.

Usage and scope vary by community. Nonpuzzling is generally an informal descriptor rather than a formal category, and nonpuzzle material may appear in areas such as discussion forums, Meta discussions, or community-wiki pages rather than in the main puzzle queue. Some platforms encourage clearly labeling nonpuzzling content to maintain focus for solvers and to prevent misinterpretation by readers seeking challenges.

Origins and etiquette also vary. The term arose within puzzle communities as a practical way to manage content flow and expectations. When contributing nonpuzzling material, it is common to follow a community’s guidelines and to consider whether the content genuinely relates to puzzles or puzzling culture. If unsure, consulting the platform’s policies or asking on Meta is advisable.

See also: puzzle, meta, off-topic, puzzle design, solving strategy.