Jobaaj Stories
Stuck on Today's NYT Strands? Let's Crack This Puzzle!
Are you staring blankly at the New York Times' Strands puzzle, the challenging word game that’s a twist on the classic word search? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Today’s theme, "Keep on Keeping On," might seem a bit cryptic, but with a little help, we’ll unlock those hidden words and conquer that grid.
Unraveling the "Keep on Keeping On" Mystery
Strands isn't your average word search. Words snake through the grid in any direction – up, down, sideways, diagonally, even changing direction mid-word! And the real kicker? Every single letter is used in a solution. The puzzle also features a spangram, a longer word or phrase spanning the whole grid, usually summarizing the day's theme.
Today's theme, "Keep on Keeping On," hints at resilience and perseverance. Think about words that describe determination, inner strength, and the ability to endure hardship. The words aren't about physical survival, but more about mental and emotional fortitude.
- Hint 1: The words all describe ways to keep going despite difficulties.
- Hint 2: Think about verbs – actions that demonstrate persistence.
Is the Spangram Horizontal or Vertical?
Knowing the orientation of the spangram is a huge advantage! For today's puzzle, the spangram runs horizontally across the grid.
Unlocking the Spangram
Need a further nudge? The spangram, the key to cracking this puzzle, is a short motivational phrase you might say to someone facing a tough time. It begins with an “S” and ends with a “G”.
Still stumped? The answer is STAY STRONG. That should help to reveal a lot of the other words.
The Complete Word List for May 13, 2025
With the spangram revealed, the rest of the puzzle should fall into place. Here’s the complete list of theme words for today’s puzzle, each representing a different facet of perseverance:
- Endure
- Last
- Survive
- Persevere
- Abide
- Persist
Tips & Tricks for Future Strands Puzzles
Strands can be tricky, but here are some strategies to make the experience smoother:
- Start Small: Look for shorter words first; they often form parts of larger theme words.
- Use the Spangram: Remember, the spangram gives you a massive clue about both the orientation and the theme.
- Earn Hints: Finding non-theme words (four letters or more) earns you hints, revealing parts of the theme words.
- Think Broadly: Don’t limit yourself to literal meanings. Consider synonyms and related concepts.
Conclusion: You've Got This!
Strands challenges you to think creatively and to find the connections between words and their underlying meaning. Even if you found this puzzle difficult, remember—the very act of tackling the challenge, persevering, and finally solving it, is a testament to your own "keep on keeping on" spirit! Now go forth and conquer tomorrow's puzzle!
