I'd be interested to know how compilers choose the words for their blank grid and what tools they use to search for the right words to go in their blanks. If anyone can direct me to any useful info or explain how its done I'd be grateful. I fancy a go at one myself but dont know how to begin! I have read 3 or 4 books on how to solve cryptic crosswords but they dont fully explain the compilers art.
You should try to post this question on the main Quizzes and Puzzles section where hopefully you would get a response from Quizmonkey who has set crosswords for the major publications and is an authority on the subject.