Introduction to NYT Strands
As of May 31, 2025, the New York Times has introduced a new puzzle game called NYT Strands. This engaging daily puzzle features unique themes and challenges players to uncover all the words hidden within 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 its Sunday Magazine, thanks to the efforts of Charles Erlenkotter and editor Margaret Farrar. This marked the newspaper as the first major publication to feature a crossword puzzle. Over the years, the NYT has rolled out various engaging 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 Strands.
Need Help with Today's NYT Strands?
If you're struggling with today's NYT Strands puzzle, we have some hints to ignite your curiosity. Keep reading to find the answers!
Today's Theme for Strands
The theme for today’s Strands is ‘Next to the bobby pins’.
Hints for Today's Strands
SPOILER ALERT: Below are the hints, answers, and Spangram for today’s NYT Strands. Be cautious, as the hints may reveal parts of the answers. Scroll down for more:
Spangram Hint: Items used to style, secure, or decorate hair.
Hint #1: A term that can refer to a video snippet, a quick pace, or something that attaches.
Hint #2: An accessory worn around the forehead to keep hair back or absorb sweat.
Answers for NYT Strands on May 31, 2025
- CLIP
- HEADBAND
- SCRUNCHIE
- BARRETTE
- CLAW
Today's Spangram
The Spangram for today’s NYT Strands puzzle is ‘HairAccessories’.
Understanding NYT Strands and How to Play
NYT 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.
To play, connect letters on the grid to form words using your mouse or fingers on a touchscreen. You can drag your mouse to link letters in any direction—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
Identifying the central theme word or Spangram will enhance your understanding of the Strands theme.
In addition to the Spangram, players should search for other theme words within the puzzle. Completing all words will solve the puzzle.
Tips for Solving the Puzzle
Uncover the theme words: Fill the grid with the theme answers, which will be marked in blue when found and will not overlap.
Discover the Spangram: Look for the Spangram, a vital piece that connects two opposite sides of the board. It encapsulates the theme and may consist of two words. It will be highlighted in yellow once identified.
Get hints: Use off-topic 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.
