If you’re visiting this page, it’s probably because you’re in need of some assistance to conquer **[Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands)**, *The New York Times*’ clever variation on the timeless word-search game.
**Strands** invites players to expand their thinking beyond standard word searches. You can create words by connecting letters in any direction—up, down, left, right, or diagonal—and even alter direction, resulting in distinct shapes and designs. Every letter within the grid contributes to a solution. Each challenge is centered around a particular theme, culminating in the “spangram,” which is a unique word or phrase that embodies the daily theme and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
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### Searching for more games?
Explore [Mashable’s Games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword puzzles, and beyond.
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In contrast to other *New York Times* games, such as **[Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle)** or **[Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections)**, **Strands** presents only an ambiguous hint with no list of words, leading to a more time-consuming and challenging experience. However, if you’re pressed for time or feeling puzzled, we’ve got all the hints you require to navigate today’s puzzle at your leisure.
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### Today’s NYT Strands Hint: Roll with it
The theme for today centers around **rock music**.
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### Theme Clarification
The terms in today’s puzzle symbolize various styles or sub-genres of rock ‘n’ roll.
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### Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?
Today’s spangram runs **horizontally**.
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### Spangram Answer
The spangram for today is **Rocking**.
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### Word List for December 19
Here is the complete list of words you will need to finish today’s puzzle:
– **Punk**
– **Grunge**
– **Alternative**
– **Metal**
– **Glam**
– **Progressive**
– **Rocking**
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### Looking for More Games?
If you want extra puzzles and games, check out [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games). You’ll discover a variety of options, including Mahjong, Sudoku, and more.
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### Missed a Day?
Are you in search of a past puzzle? [Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Strands](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-18-2024).
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For additional tips and tricks, don’t miss **Strands 101: How to Win NYT’s Latest Word Game** in the featured video above. Enjoy puzzling!