The New York Times has introduced a new puzzle game called NYT Strands, which debuted on August 15, 2025. This engaging daily puzzle features unique themes and challenges players to uncover all the words hidden within a grid, including a special Spangram that spans two sides of the board, providing insights into the theme.
The first crossword puzzle by The New York Times was published on February 15, 1942, in its Sunday Magazine, thanks to the efforts of Charles Erlenkotter and editor Margaret Farrar. This marked the newspaper as the pioneer in introducing crossword puzzles. Over the years, the NYT has launched various captivating games, including the Mini Crossword in 2014, followed by Spelling Bee, Letter Boxed, and Tiles. The immensely popular Wordle was released in 2022, along with Connections and Strands.
The theme for today's Strands puzzle is 'Labor intensive.'
SPOILER ALERT: Below are hints and answers for today's NYT Strands puzzle. Be cautious, as these hints may reveal parts of the solution.
Spangram Hint: An expression often used to complain about a tedious task.
Hint #1: Items like plates, bowls, and cutlery that need washing after meals.
Hint #2: Refers to waste or unwanted materials that are discarded.
The Spangram for today's NYT Strands puzzle is 'WhatAChore.'
NYT Strands is a unique game that merges elements from Connections, Spelling Bee, and traditional crossword puzzles. Players are presented with 48 letters arranged on a 6 x 8-inch board along with a daily theme. The objective is to solve the Spangram and identify all the theme-related words.
Players can connect letters on the grid to form words using a mouse or touch screen, dragging to connect letters in various directions.
Identifying the central theme word or Spangram is crucial for grasping the overall theme of the Strands.
Identify the theme words: Fill in the grid with the theme answers, which will be highlighted in blue once found.
Locate the Spangram: This essential piece connects two opposite sides of the board and summarizes the theme, highlighted in yellow when discovered.
Utilize hints: Off-topic words can serve as clues. For every three non-theme words revealed, letters will be highlighted to assist in finding a themed word without directly disclosing it.
