The New York Times Strands puzzle for November 29th (#636) is a word-search challenge with a twist. Players must uncover hidden words that fit a specific theme, including a “spangram” – a long word spanning the entire grid.
Understanding the Puzzle
Strands differs from typical word searches. It requires identifying multiple words relating to the day’s theme. The game provides hints when you find three or more four-letter words. These hints reveal theme-related terms, guiding you towards the final solution.
Today’s Theme: Tools and Machines
The theme for today’s puzzle is “What a piece of work!” which refers to simple machines. The objective is to locate all theme-related words within the letter grid.
Hints and Starting Words
If you’re stuck, start by finding common words to trigger in-game hints. These words don’t need to be part of the final solution; they simply unlock the puzzle’s assistance system. Useful words for today’s puzzle include:
- CREW
- REAM
- LANE
- WHEE
- DELL
- CANE
- PULL
- REVEL
Complete Solutions
The full set of answers for Strands #636 includes the following terms, all related to basic mechanical tools:
- WHEEL
- AXLE
- LEVER
- WEDGE
- PLANE
- PULLEY
- SCREW
The spangram, the word that stretches across the entire puzzle, is not yet revealed. The goal is to find all words so that every letter on the board is used.
Strands tests vocabulary and pattern recognition in a unique format. The puzzle encourages players to think beyond simple word-finding, requiring them to connect terms to a broader theme.
