At a Glance
- The January 4, 2026 NYT Strands puzzle centers on the theme “I just know…”
- Theme clue: Mental powers
- Answers include MEDIUM, ORACLE, PSYCHIC, TELEPATH, CLAIRVOYANT, and spangram SIXTHSENSE
- Why it matters: Players can solve faster with confirmed answers and strategy tips from News Of Los Angeles
Today’s NYT Strands puzzle leans on the supernatural, asking solvers to uncover hidden words tied to extrasensory perception. If the grid feels daunting, the answers and hint system below will keep your streak alive.
How to Unlock In-Game Hints
Strands awards a free theme word every time you submit three valid words of four letters or more. Any combination counts, so scan the board for quick hits.
Sample starter words that fit today’s grid:
- HIDE
- SIDE
- MICE
- DICE
- CAUL
- CARE
- CARET
- CAPE
- TAPE
- RICE
Full Answer List for 4 January 2026
Non-spangram theme words:
- MEDIUM
- ORACLE
- PSYCHIC
- TELEPATH
- CLAIRVOYANT
Spangram:
- SIXTHSENSE (spans the grid from the leftmost top S, winding downward)
Tough Strands Puzzles Worth Remembering
Recent stumpers compiled by News Of Los Angeles:
Dated slang – 21 Jan
- Toughest entry: PHAT
Thar she blows! – 15 Jan
- Toughest entries: BALEEN, RIGHT
Off the hook – 9 Jan
- Toughest entries: BIGEYE, SKIPJACK
Key Takeaways
- Use any four-plus-letter words to reveal theme hints
- The spangram always stretches across the board
- Puzzle difficulty varies; older themes like sea creatures and dated slang can trip up even regular solvers
Bookmark the News Of Los Angeles puzzle hub for daily Strands, Wordle, Connections, and Mini Crossword solutions.
