NYT Strands Tips: How to Find Every Theme Word

NYT Strands is the NYT's word search puzzle. Find theme words in a letter grid, plus a spangram spanning the board.

1. Find the Spangram First

The spangram describes the theme and spans the board. Finding it early makes other words easier.

2. Start With Obvious Words

Scan for common theme-related words. Easy words build momentum.

3. Use Hints Wisely

Find 3 non-theme words to earn a hint. Save hints for when truly stuck.

4. Look at Letter Clusters

Common pairs like TH, CH, SH, QU often start theme words.

5. Think Broadly About Theme

Brainstorm theme-related words before searching the grid.

6. Every Letter Gets Used

All 48 letters must be used exactly once. Leftover letters mean a mistake.

7. Trace Carefully

Words snake in any direction including diagonals. Trace slowly.

---

Daily NYT Strands hints at GoSolveDaily.