Introduction
The NYT Strands puzzle from January 27, 2026 offers a fresh challenge for crossword enthusiasts. The theme centers on canine classics, and players must uncover hidden words that fit the puzzle’s playful clues.
At a Glance
- Theme: Canine classics.
- Key clue: Sit! Speak! Roll over!.
- Non-spangram answers include BLUE, SPOT, BUDDY, ROVER, SCOUT, CHAMP, SCRUFFY, BANDIT.
- Spangram: BOY.
- Why it matters: Solving the puzzle reveals how word-play and theme integration create an engaging puzzle experience.
Puzzle Overview
The Strands puzzle is a word-search style grid where players locate hidden words. Each word must be at least 4 letters long. When three qualifying words are found, the puzzle unlocks a new theme word. The goal is to discover all theme words, including the spangram that stretches from one side of the board to the other.
Players begin by scanning the grid for familiar four-letter words. The original author lists a set of helper words-HEART, HEAR, COVE, COVER, COVET, CURD, SPUD, DINT, TOPS, RUFF, SCRUFF, BAND-that can be used to trigger theme hints. Any word of four or more letters that appears in the grid will work.
How to Solve the Puzzle
- Identify Basic Words – Look for common four-letter words. Use the helper list to spot potential matches.
- Collect Three Words – Once three words are found, the puzzle will reveal a theme word.
- Repeat – Continue finding words until all theme words are unlocked.
- Spot the Spangram – The spangram is a single word that runs from one edge of the grid to the opposite edge. In this puzzle, it is BOY.
Players often use a systematic approach: scan rows left to right, then columns top to bottom, checking for any of the helper words or other four-letter combinations.
Answers
The puzzle’s non-spangram answers are:
- BLUE
- SPOT
- BUDDY
- ROVER
- SCOUT
- CHAMP
- SCRUFFY
- BANDIT
These words fit the canine theme and appear fully within the grid. Once all are found, the puzzle is complete.
The Spangram
The spangram for this edition is BOY. To locate it, start at the H that is five letters down on the far-left row and trace across the grid. The spangram connects the leftmost column to the rightmost, completing the puzzle.
Key Takeaways
- The NYT Strands puzzle blends classic crossword mechanics with a themed word-search format.
- A helper list can accelerate solving by providing ready-made word triggers.
- The spangram, a single word that spans the grid, offers a satisfying final discovery.
- Solving the puzzle demonstrates how theme integration can enhance engagement for casual and seasoned puzzlers alike.
For more daily puzzle hints and answers, visit News Of Los Angeles‘s NYT puzzle hints page.
