The New York Times’ Strands is an engaging word game that challenges players to uncover words based on a daily theme. Each puzzle features a unique theme, guiding players to discover related words and the elusive “Spangram”—a word or phrase that spans the grid, touching two opposite sides. Today’s puzzle, Game #375, revolves around the theme: “What goes around comes around.”
How to Play NYT Strands
In Strands, players are presented with a 6×8 grid filled with letters. The objective is to find all theme-related words and the Spangram. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Identify Theme Words: Based on the daily theme, search for words related to the topic. These words are highlighted in blue when found and do not overlap.
Discover the Spangram: This special word or phrase encapsulates the theme and spans the grid, touching two opposite sides. It is highlighted in yellow upon discovery.
Utilize Hints: By finding non-theme words of four letters or more, players earn hints. For every three such words, a hint reveals letters to assist in finding a theme word without directly giving it away.
This structure differentiates Strands from other NYT word games, offering a blend of thematic exploration and strategic word discovery.
Hints for Today’s Puzzle
To assist without giving away the answers directly, consider the following subtle hints:
Theme Insight: Think of words associated with actions or objects that return to their origin or have a cyclical nature.
Clue Words: Starting with words like “RODE,” “BODE,” “CONE,” “DINE,” or “TONE” can help unlock the in-game hints system.
Spangram Hint: This phrase is often used to acknowledge a witty or effective retort, implying a return to the original point.
Answers for March 13, 2025
If you’re seeking the solutions for today’s puzzle, here they are:
Spangram: NICECOMEBACK
Theme Words:
- BOOMERANG
- BOUNCE
- REBOUND
- RETURN
- RICOCHET
These words are commonly associated with actions or objects that return to their starting point, aligning with the theme “What goes around comes around.”
Strategies to Solve NYT Strands
Enhance your gameplay with these effective strategies:
Understand the Theme: Grasping the daily theme is crucial. It narrows down potential words and guides your search.
Start with Obvious Words: Identify and input words that are clearly related to the theme. This can unlock hints and provide a foundation for discovering more complex words.
Look for Common Prefixes and Suffixes: Recognizing common word beginnings and endings can help in identifying potential words within the grid.
Utilize Hints Wisely: Use the in-game hint system to your advantage by finding non-theme words, which can reveal letters for theme words.
Focus on the Spangram: Identifying the Spangram can provide significant insight into the theme and assist in uncovering other related words.
By implementing these strategies, players can improve their word-finding abilities and enjoy a more rewarding Strands experience.
