If you’ve found your way here, it’s likely you’re seeking a bit of assistance with Strands — the New York Times’ newest take on the classic word search challenge.

Strands adds an inventive twist to conventional word searches. Rather than just locating words in straight lines, participants must connect letters in any direction — upward, downward, sideways, or diagonally — and words can even curve and bend into distinctive shapes. Every letter in the grid is part of a solution, with all the words linked by a shared theme. Each puzzle also features a special word or phrase known as the “spangram,” which embodies the theme of the day and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.

Strands differentiates itself from other NYT games like Wordle and Connections by providing a more demanding experience. Given a vague hint and lacking a word list, untangling a Strands puzzle may require additional time and cognitive effort.

If you’re pressed for time or feeling blocked, don’t fret — we have all the hints and solutions you require for today’s Strands puzzle.

🧠 NYT Strands Hint for Today’s Theme:
Get the bug

🕷️ Theme Explained:
All the words represent insects that contain the word “bug” within their names.

📏 Spangram Orientation:
Today’s spangram extends horizontally across the grid.

🧩 Spangram Answer:
Entomology

📝 Word List for April 3:

– Lightning
– Lady
– Stink
– Assassin
– Potato
– Doodle
– Entomology

🎮 Want more puzzles and games?
Explore Mashable’s Games hub for a wide array of daily challenges including Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and beyond.

📅 Looking for a previous puzzle?
Missed a day? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Strands puzzle.

Happy puzzling!