LinkedIn CrossClimb #602 Solution Guide

Game: LinkedIn CrossClimb | Puzzle ID: #602 | Published: December 23, 2025

Understanding CrossClimb Mechanics

CrossClimb is a word puzzle game that challenges players to build a ladder of words by changing exactly one letter at a time. You start with an initial word, solve clues for intermediate steps, and reach a final target word. The puzzle concludes with a compound question that combines the top and bottom words to form a meaningful phrase.

Step-by-Step Solution Breakdown

Step 1: Pro ___ basis (Answer: RATA)

The phrase "pro rata basis" refers to a proportional distribution of costs or benefits. In business and finance, "pro rata" means "in proportion" or "according to the share." This Latin phrase is commonly used when costs change proportionally based on usage or time. Answer: RATA

Step 2: Judge to be of a certain quality (Answer: RATE)

From RATA to RATE, we change one letter: the final A becomes E. To "rate" something means to judge or assess its quality, value, or performance. This is a straightforward transition that maintains the first three letters while shifting to a common English verb. Answer: RATE

Step 3: Predicted outcome (Answer: FATE)

Moving from RATE to FATE, we change the R to F. "Fate" represents a predicted or predetermined outcome, especially when referring to destiny or an inevitable result. This step introduces a philosophical element to the puzzle while maintaining the -ATE ending structure. Answer: FATE

Step 4: Cost of a taxi ride (Answer: FARE)

From FATE to FARE, we change the T to R. A "fare" is the charge or cost associated with transportation services like taxis, buses, or flights. This practical word brings the puzzle back to concrete, everyday concepts. Answer: FARE

Step 5: Blaze (Answer: FIRE)

From FARE to FIRE, we change the A to I. "Fire" refers to a blaze or the rapid combustion of materials. This final step in the word ladder creates a vivid, powerful word that sets up the compound question perfectly. Answer: FIRE

The Compound Question: Where Your Information is Stored

The final challenge asks for a two-word phrase describing where information is stored:

• Top Answer: DATA
• Bottom Answer: FILE

The complete phrase is "DATA FILE" – a common term in computing and information management referring to a collection of related information stored together. Interestingly, DATA is derived by changing the F in FIRE to D, and FILE is derived by changing the I in FIRE to I while maintaining the structure, showing how the puzzle elegantly connects the physical concept of fire to abstract digital storage.

Key Strategies for Solving CrossClimb Puzzles

• Focus on one letter changes: Remember that each step involves changing exactly one letter. This constraint guides your word choices.
• Consider multiple meanings: Clues often have synonymous answers. If your first guess doesn't create a valid word ladder, try alternative meanings.
• Work with common words: The puzzle typically uses standard dictionary words rather than obscure vocabulary.
• Use word patterns: Notice recurring letter patterns like -ATE endings (RATE, FATE) that can guide your solutions.
• Think about the compound question: The final clue often reveals the thematic connection between the top and bottom words.

Why This Puzzle Works

This CrossClimb puzzle brilliantly progresses from financial terminology (pro rata) through judgment and prediction (rate, fate) to tangible cost (fare) and natural phenomenon (fire), ultimately arriving at the digital concept of data storage. The word ladder demonstrates how small changes create entirely new meanings while maintaining linguistic coherence.