Motamo

Motamo helps word-game fans find answers fast. Type in your letters, then see if they constitute a real word, try out anagrams, find words contained within the random set, and more.

The program includes a word finder that can help with crossword puzzles: Enter the known letters in their proper spots, then peruse a list of possible words. An "N + 1" function is useful for Scrabble players: It takes your letters and creates new words with one additional letter to help you make plays.

The trial version gives you a good idea of how Motamo works, but is limited to working with six letters at a time. Registering the program for $17 lets you enter up to nine letters.

Is using a program like this cheating? You'll need to work that out with your fellow gamers.

--Kim Saccio-Kent