If you’re reading this, you might be in search of advice on how to tackle [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of a word search challenge.
### How to Engage with Strands
Strands adds an innovative twist to the conventional word search. You can create words by linking letters in all directions—upward, downward, sideways, or diagonally. Additionally, words may shift direction, forming unexpected shapes. Every letter in the grid contributes to the solution. Each puzzle revolves around a central theme, where you’ll discover a special word or phrase known as the “spangram,” which embodies the theme and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
### A Stimulating Word Challenge
Unlike *Wordle* or *Connections*, Strands does not offer a list of words, transforming it into more of a mental exercise. The game provides only a vague clue, prompting players to think outside the box and take a bit more time to crack the puzzle.
If you find yourself in a bind or pressed for time, we have hints available to assist you in solving today’s Strands puzzle at your preferred pace.
—
## **Hints for Today’s NYT Strands**
### **Theme Clue: It’s our game-iversary!**
The terms in this puzzle are adaptable.
### **Theme Clarified**
Each term pertains to methods of uncovering solutions in this game.
### **Spangram Clue: Horizontal or Vertical?**
The spangram for today is **horizontal**.
### **Spangram Solution**
Today’s spangram is **Strands**.
—
## **NYT Strands Word Collection for March 4**
– **Ribbon**
– **Tendril**
– **Wisp**
– **Filament**
– **Curl**
– **Thread**
– **String**
– **Strands**
—
### **Searching for Additional Games?**
If you take pleasure in daily puzzles, visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for more clues and challenges. You can also delve into [Mashable’s game hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and beyond.
Missed the previous day’s puzzle? [Locate the March 3 Strands solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-3-2025).
Enjoy your puzzling! 🎉