Strands is one of the newest daily word games from the New York Times, designed to challenge your observation and vocabulary skills in a fun and refreshing way. It’s similar to a word search, but with more twists and strategy involved. Unlike traditional word searches, where you simply hunt for listed words, Strands gives you a hidden theme, and your job is to figure out what the theme words are, all embedded in a grid of letters.
If you already play daily games like Wordle, the Mini Crossword, or Connections, Strands is a great addition to your routine. It’s slightly more difficult than it looks, and some days, it can leave you puzzled. So if you find yourself stuck, there’s no shame in looking for a little help. That’s what we’re here for.
How to Play NYT Strands
Each puzzle starts with a grid of letters and one hidden theme. Your goal is to find all the “theme words” that relate to that specific topic. You can drag your finger or mouse across the letters to form words. Double-tapping the last letter confirms the word.
When you find a correct theme word:
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The letters turn blue
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Those letters are no longer usable for the rest of the puzzle
If you find a word that isn’t part of the theme, it still helps. For every three valid non-theme words that are at least four letters long, the game gives you a hint by revealing the letters of one of the theme words — you’ll then need to unscramble it.
Here are a few more important rules:
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Every letter in the grid is used exactly once
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There is no overlapping
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Each puzzle includes a spangram — a special word that touches two opposite sides of the board and sums up the theme
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The spangram turns yellow once found
Your goal is to complete the full puzzle using as few hints as possible and relying on your ability to see patterns and think in themes.
Hint for Today’s NYT Strands (August 5)
Theme: “We have a winner!”
If that doesn’t give it away just yet, here’s a small nudge:
Hint: “Have to play to win”
Think about activities where luck plays a role — things people enter, try, or hope to win. This clue is key to unlocking today’s grid.
Today’s Spangram
The special word that represents the puzzle’s theme and stretches across two opposite edges of the board is:
LUCKYBREAK
This term ties the entire puzzle together, summarizing the idea of someone suddenly winning or getting fortunate, often in a contest or by chance.
All of Today’s NYT Strands Answers (August 5)
If you’re still struggling or just want to confirm your final guesses, here are the full answers for today’s puzzle:
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LUCKYBREAK (spangram)
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BINGO
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DRAWING
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GIVEAWAY
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LOTTERY
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SWEEPSTAKES
Each of these words is tied to the idea of winning something through chance, luck, or random selection, perfectly fitting the theme.