Word Ladder Generator
Create word ladder puzzles where players change one letter at a time to transform one word into another. CAT to DOG, COLD to WARM—a classic word game for all ages.
Enter words for each step of your ladder
to create your word ladder puzzle
About This Tool
The Word Ladder Generator creates the classic word transformation puzzle invented by Lewis Carroll. Players start with one word and must reach a target word by changing exactly one letter at each step, with every step forming a valid word. For example: CAT → COT → COG → DOG. This deceptively simple game builds vocabulary, spelling awareness, and creative thinking as players explore word relationships. Add hints to guide students, or leave the intermediate steps blank for a greater challenge. Perfect for word games, literacy centers, and brain-teaser activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
A word ladder (also called 'doublets' or 'word golf') is a puzzle where you transform one word into another by changing one letter at a time. Each intermediate step must be a real word. For example, to go from COLD to WARM: COLD → CORD → CARD → WARD → WARM. The challenge is finding the shortest path between words.
Word ladders were invented by Lewis Carroll (author of Alice in Wonderland) in 1877. He called them 'Doublets' and published them in a magazine. The game has remained popular for nearly 150 years because it's simple to understand but endlessly challenging.
The best word ladders have start and end words that seem very different but can be connected in just a few steps. Classic examples include CAT→DOG, HEAD→TAIL, COLD→WARM, and LOVE→HATE. Words should be the same length, and the path should use common, recognizable words.
Word ladders build vocabulary, spelling patterns, and word analysis skills. Use them as warm-up activities, literacy center tasks, or challenge puzzles. Start with easier 3-letter word ladders for younger students, then progress to 4-5 letter words. Adding hints makes them accessible while still requiring thinking.