The NYT Strands answers today, November 14, 2026, include the spangram FOLLOWTHELEADER and seven theme words: GALLOP, JUMP, MARCH, SKIP, SPIN, TIPTOE and WALK. The theme for puzzle #986 is “Preschool fun”.
The connection is movement. Rather than classroom supplies or toys, today’s answers describe actions that children can copy while playing follow the leader.
There are eight solution entries altogether: seven ordinary theme words and the spangram. The phrase FOLLOW THE LEADER appears without spaces as FOLLOWTHELEADER in the answer list.
Hints for November 14
- Think about a group activity in which everyone copies one person’s actions.
- All seven theme words describe ways to move.
- One answer means moving quietly on the front parts of your feet.
- Another describes turning around on the spot.
- The spangram names the copying game itself.
Today’s spangram: FOLLOWTHELEADER
FOLLOWTHELEADER
Read the spangram as three words: FOLLOW THE LEADER. It supplies the shared context for the shorter answers, which work as instructions a leader could demonstrate to the rest of the group.
All seven theme words
GALLOP
JUMP
MARCH
SKIP
SPIN
TIPTOE
WALK
GALLOP, MARCH, SKIP and WALK describe different ways of travelling across a space. JUMP adds an upward movement, SPIN a turn, and TIPTOE a quieter way of stepping. Together, they explain why the preschool clue points to an active game rather than a collection of objects.
How the solution fits
The shortest answers, JUMP, SKIP, SPIN and WALK, each contain four letters. MARCH has five, while GALLOP and TIPTOE each have six. Those lengths provide a spelling check if you have identified an action but have not yet completed its path.
Explore our Word Games coverage for more daily answers and hints.
