applying the same states to multiple objects

I'm trying to apply the same states to multiple shapes within a project. When I use the format painter, it creates a new state but doesn't apply the same format to the state. I'm trying to create a crossword puzzle. I've created the grid and typed the words into each cell. I want to create an "empty" state for the cell which would be empty of the letter. That would be the starting state and then when the user clicks on the cell the state will change to "normal" and the letter will appear. It's very tedious having to click on each cell to make the change. Any suggestions how to make this easier. I've already searched for crossword puzzles in the forum and want to proceed this way if possible. Thanks.

https://360.articulate.com/review/content/6982e9f9-1a6a-46d5-87f2-e068e11fcbfa/review