Strands is a New York Times word‑puzzle game in which you find themed words in a rectangular letter grid and identify a special connecting word called the spangram.

How it works

• Grid: Typically a 6×8 (or similar) rectangular array of letters.
• Objective: Find a list of words that fit a theme shown by the puzzle. Words are formed by tracing adjacent letters (including diagonals) without reusing a letter cell in a single word.
• Spangram: One key word (the spangram) connects opposite sides of the grid by spanning across it; finding it often reveals or links the theme.
• Scoring/Goals: Locate all themed words plus the spangram. Hints and nudges may be available in the NYT interface.

Gameplay tips

• Start with obvious long words to expose more letter connections.
• Scan edges and corners for parts of the spangram—its letters will appear across the grid.
• Look for common prefixes/suffixes and repeated letter clusters to speed discovery.
• Use word patterns (e.g., _ING, _TION) to find theme-related entries.
• If stuck, use the hint system sparingly to reveal one word or letter.

Where to play

• Official: The New York Times Games site hosts Strands as part of its daily puzzles.
• Other versions: Several web clones and fan sites offer Strands-like play, sometimes with unlimited puzzles.

Resources

• NYT Strands puzzle page for the daily game and official rules.
• Hints/answer guides from puzzle sites (e.g., Mashable, Parade) provide daily answers and spangram lists if you need help.

If you want, I can give strategies for a specific daily puzzle or help find today’s spangram—tell me the puzzle date or paste the grid.