If you’re visiting this page, you’re likely seeking assistance with playing [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of a word search puzzle.

### How to Play Strands

Strands invites players to uncover words by linking letters in any direction—up, down, left, right, or diagonally. Unlike conventional word searches, words can alter direction, creating intriguing shapes. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution. Every puzzle features a central theme, and one particular word or phrase, referred to as the “spangram,” captures that theme while spanning the grid either horizontally or vertically.

### Why Strands Stands Out

In contrast to *Wordle* or *Connections*, Strands does not offer a list of words, adding complexity and requiring more time. The game provides merely a broad hint, prompting players to think critically and investigate various word options.

If you find yourself at a standstill or pressed for time, we have hints available to help you work through today’s puzzle at your own leisure.

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## Today’s NYT Strands Hints

### Theme Hint: *Love is in the Apps*
The words featured in today’s puzzle connect to dating apps such as Tinder and Bumble.

### Theme Explanation
All the words relate to the world of online dating.

### Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?
The spangram for today is formatted horizontally.

### Spangram Answer
The spangram for today’s challenge is **OnlineDating**.

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## NYT Strands Word List for March 6

– **Swipe**
– **Profile**
– **Meetup**
– **Chat**
– **Ghost**
– **Like**
– **Match**
– **OnlineDating**

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### More Games to Enjoy

In search of additional daily puzzles? Visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for hints and solutions. You can also check out [Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more](https://games.mashable.com/).

Missed yesterday’s puzzle? [Find the March 5 Strands solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-5-2025).