If you’ve found your way here, it’s likely you’re seeking help with *Strands*, the clever word-search game from the *New York Times*.

*Strands* presents an innovative take on the classic word search. Rather than limiting you to discovering words in straight lines, it allows you to create words by connecting letters in various directions—up, down, sideways, or diagonally. The challenge is amplified as words can shift direction, resulting in distinctive and playful formations. Every letter within the grid contributes to a solution, and all the words share a unifying theme. Moreover, there’s the “spangram,” a unique word or phrase that encapsulates the day’s theme and extends across the entire grid, either from left to right or top to bottom.

### SEE ALSO:
[Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)

In contrast to other NYT games like [Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections), *Strands* does not offer a word list, resulting in a more labor-intensive and mentally stimulating experience. If you find yourself perplexed or lack the time to tackle today’s puzzle, we’ve compiled all the hints you require to assist you.

### SEE ALSO:
[Wordle today: Answer, hints for November 4](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-november-4-2024)

### SEE ALSO:
[NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 4](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-November-4)

### NYT *Strands* Hint for Today’s Theme: In a(n)…
These words are centered around the concept of speed.

### Today’s NYT *Strands* Theme Explained
The theme focuses on terms that indicate short durations of time.

### NYT *Strands* Spangram Hint: Is it Vertical or Horizontal?
Today’s spangram is arranged vertically.

### NYT *Strands* Spangram Answer for Today
Today’s spangram is **Smalltime**.

### NYT *Strands* Word List for November 4
– **Tick**
– **Minute**
– **Jiffy**
– **Flash**
– **Smalltime**
– **Second**
– **Moment**
– **Instant**

Looking for additional online games to enjoy daily? Visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for further hints, and if you crave more puzzles, [Mashable’s got games now](https://games.mashable.com/).

### Not the day you’re after?
[Here’s the solution to yesterday’s *Strands*](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-november-3).

For extra entertainment, check out our [games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and more!