If you’re visiting this page, it’s likely that you’re in search of some tips for playing [**Strands**](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), the *New York Times*’ elegant word-search game. Let’s get started!
### What is Strands?
Strands provides an innovative variation on the classic word search. You can create words by linking letters in any orientation — upward, downward, sideways, or diagonally. What makes it distinctive is that words can shift direction unexpectedly, resulting in unusual shapes and designs. Each letter within the grid contributes to a solution, and all the answers are interconnected by a central theme. Moreover, there’s the “spangram,” a unique word or phrase that captures the day’s theme and covers the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.
### A Challenging Mental Exercise
In contrast to other *New York Times* games, such as [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/category/connections), Strands does not offer a list of words. Rather, it provides one somewhat ambiguous hint, making it a more time-consuming and mentally stimulating challenge. If you’re pressed for time or feeling stuck, no need to fret — we’ve gathered all the hints and answers necessary for you to tackle today’s puzzle at your own leisure.
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### **SEE ALSO:**
– [Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)
– [Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 12](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-january-12-2025)
– [NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 12](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-january-12-2025)
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### Today’s NYT Strands Puzzle: Hints and Answers
#### **Clue for Today’s Theme:**
The words in today’s puzzle will have you thinking, “Wait, what?”
#### **Theme Clarified:**
All the words pertain to something unexpected or perplexing.
#### **Spangram Clue:**
The spangram for today’s puzzle is positioned vertically.
#### **Spangram Response:**
The spangram is **Mindblown**.
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### Word Compilation for January 12
Here are all the words included in today’s puzzle:
– **Flabbergast**
– **Surprise**
– **Stun**
– **Astonish**
– **Gobsmack**
– **Mindblown**
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### Seeking More Games?
If you’re on the lookout for extra daily games, be sure to visit [**Mashable’s Games page**](https://mashable.com/category/games) for additional hints and puzzles. With options ranging from Mahjong to Sudoku and free crosswords, there’s something enjoyable for everyone. You can also check out our [**games hub**](https://games.mashable.com/) for even more entertainment.
Did you miss yesterday’s puzzle? [Here’s the solution to January 11’s Strands.](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-11-2025)
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### Featured Video: Strands 101
Want to excel at Strands? Watch this video guide on how to succeed in the *New York Times*’ newest word game!
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Equipped with these hints and answers, you’re prepared to take on today’s Strands puzzle. Best of luck, and enjoy puzzling!