Introduction to NYT Strands
As of May 12, 2025, the New York Times has introduced a new puzzle game called NYT Strands. This engaging daily puzzle features unique themes, challenging players to uncover all the words on the grid, including a special Spangram that spans two sides of the board, providing insights into the theme.
A Brief History of NYT Puzzles
The New York Times launched its first crossword puzzle on February 15, 1942, in the Sunday Magazine, created by Charles Erlenkotter and edited by Margaret Farrar. It was the first major newspaper to feature a crossword puzzle. Over the years, the NYT has rolled out various captivating games, including the Mini Crossword in 2014, followed by Spelling Bee, Letter Boxed, and Tiles. The immensely popular Wordle was introduced in 2022, along with Connections and now Strands.
Today's NYT Strands Puzzle Theme
The theme for today's Strands puzzle is A little respect.
Hints for Today's Puzzle
SPOILER ALERT: Below are hints for today's NYT Strands puzzle, which may reveal answers. Proceed with caution:
Spangram Hint: Respect gained through reputation, authenticity, and presence, particularly in urban settings.
Hint #1: Your personal label or identifier.
Hint #2: The characteristics that define an individual's true essence.
Answers for May 12, 2025
- NAME
- CHARACTER
- STATURE
- STANDING
- REPUTATION
Today's Spangram
StreetCred is the Spangram for today's NYT Strands puzzle.
Understanding NYT Strands and Gameplay
Strands is a unique game that merges elements from Connections, Spelling Bee, and traditional crossword puzzles. Players are presented with 48 letters 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 essential for grasping the Strands theme.
In addition to the Spangram, players must locate other theme words within the puzzle. Completing all words signifies solving the puzzle.
Tips for Solving the Puzzle
Uncover the theme words: Fill the grid with theme answers, which will be marked in blue upon discovery and will not overlap.
Discover the Spangram: Locate the Spangram, a vital piece that connects two opposite sides of the board. It encapsulates the theme and may consist of two words, highlighted in yellow once found.
Get hints: Look for unrelated words as clues. For every three non-theme words revealed, letters will be highlighted to assist in finding a themed word without directly revealing it.
