The New York Times’ Strands puzzle for December 28, #665, centers around a common experience: cold and flu symptoms. If you’re stuck, this guide provides hints and the complete solution.
Understanding the Puzzle
Strands requires players to identify hidden words within a grid, all tied to a specific theme. The game provides in-game hints when you find at least three words with four or more letters. The ultimate goal is to uncover all theme words, including the spangram – a long word that spans the grid.
Hints for Today’s Puzzle
The theme for today’s puzzle is “Load up on tissues”, with a direct clue: “Achoo!”. This suggests the puzzle will involve words related to illnesses and their symptoms.
Words to Unlock Hints
To trigger in-game hints, begin by finding any valid words four letters or longer. Some words that can get you started include:
- SOLD
- TOLD
- FINS
- SINS
- NEED
- HEMP
- DOTE
- DOTES
- CHEW
- NEEDS
- COLD
- COLDS
The Solution
The complete list of theme words for today’s Strands puzzle includes:
- DRIP
- HACK
- COUGH
- SNEEZE
- WHEEZE
- SNORT
- SNIFFLE
The spangram for this puzzle is COLDSYMPTOM, starting from the ‘C’ in the upper left corner and winding downwards across the grid.
To solve, focus on words associated with common cold and flu discomfort. Finding just a few words will unlock further hints, making the puzzle more manageable.
