NYT Strands hides theme words in a 6×8 letter grid — and every single letter gets used exactly once. Find them all, including the special “spangram,” to win. Here’s how the game works and how to earn hints.
How to Play NYT Strands
Each day, Strands presents a 6-by-8 grid of 48 letters and a theme clue (like “A form of art”). Drag across letters — horizontally, vertically, diagonally, even bending around corners — to trace words connected to the theme. Unlike a normal word search, words can twist and turn, and every letter on the board belongs to exactly one answer.
The star of the show is the spangram: a special word or phrase that captures the theme and stretches from one edge of the grid to another (not necessarily opposite edges). Finding it usually cracks the puzzle open.
How the Hint System Works
Stuck? Find any three words of 4 or more letters — even ones unrelated to the theme — and the game awards a hint. The hint highlights the letters of one theme word (or the spangram), which you then unscramble yourself. A new puzzle drops every midnight in your local time zone, and everyone worldwide gets the same puzzle each day.
5 Tips to Solve Strands Faster
1. Read the theme literally first, then loosely. Themes can be straightforward categories or playful references — including pop culture. Don’t take the clue too literally.
2. Hunt the spangram early. Since it spans edge to edge, scan the borders of the grid. Once found, the remaining words fall into place faster.
3. Start with short words. Four-letter theme words are the easiest way in; the board opens up around them.
4. Farm hints with easy words. Spot any valid 4+ letter word? Bank it. Three of them earn a hint that can break a deadlock.
5. Remember every letter is used. Leftover letters aren’t random — if a cluster won’t fit any theme word you know, reconsider your theme interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the spangram in NYT Strands?
A special word or phrase describing the puzzle’s theme that stretches from one side of the grid to another, touching two different edges. It can be multiple words.
How do you get hints in Strands?
Find three non-theme words of 4+ letters to earn one hint, which highlights the letters of a theme word for you to unscramble.
When did NYT Strands launch?
Strands launched in 2024 as the newest addition to the New York Times Games lineup.
Is NYT Strands free to play?
Yes — the daily puzzle is free on the New York Times website and the NYT Games app.