If you’re visiting this page, you’re likely seeking some assistance with [**Strands**](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), the *New York Times*’ clever take on the timeless word-search game.
**Strands** prompts players to expand their thinking beyond conventional word searches. Words can be created by linking letters in every direction — whether up, down, left, right, or diagonally — and they can even alter their direction, forming distinct shapes and arrangements. Every character in the grid contributes to a solution, and all the words are connected by an overarching theme. Additionally, there’s a “spangram,” a unique word or phrase that embodies the day’s theme and fills the grid either horizontally or vertically.
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### **SEE ALSO:**
[**Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable**](https://games.mashable.com/)
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In contrast to other well-liked games such as [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/category/connections), **Strands** lacks a word list, providing a more intellectually stimulating challenge. Instead, players receive an enigmatic clue to assist them, which may prolong the time taken to solve the puzzle.
If you’re facing difficulties or are short on time and can’t dedicate 10+ minutes to solving today’s puzzle, we have all the hints and solutions you need to help you advance at your leisure.
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### **SEE ALSO:**
[**Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 20**](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-january-20-2025)
[**NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 20**](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-january-20-2025)
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## **NYT Strands Hint for Today’s Theme: Curiouser and Curiouser!**
The words for today are inspired by characters and activities from *Alice in Wonderland*.
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## **Today’s NYT Strands Theme Explained**
The theme is based on a phrase from *Alice in Wonderland*, with all answers fitting into this enchanting realm.
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## **NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?**
Today, the spangram is vertical.
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## **NYT Strands Spangram Answer for Today**
The spangram for today is **Wonderland**.
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### **Featured Video For You**
**Strands 101: How to Win NYT’s Latest Word Game**
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## **NYT Strands Word List for January 20**
Here are the answers for today:
– **Hatter**
– **Rabbit**
– **Caterpillar**
– **Croquet**
– **Dormouse**
– **Wonderland**
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### **Looking for More Games?**
Visit [**Mashable’s Games page**](https://mashable.com/category/games) for additional hints and puzzles. From Mahjong and Sudoku to free crosswords, there is something available for everyone.
Not engaging with today’s puzzle? [**Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Strands.**](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-19-2025)