If you’ve landed here, it’s likely that you’re in search of some tips for engaging with **[Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands)**, *The New York Times*’ intricate word-search game.
**Strands** adds an inventive spin to the classic word search. Rather than merely identifying words in direct lines, you can create them by connecting letters in any orientation — upwards, downwards, side to side, or diagonally. Words can shift direction partway through, forming distinctive shapes and designs. Each letter within the grid contributes to a solution, with all answers interconnected by a central theme. Furthermore, there’s the “spangram,” a particular word or phrase that embodies the day’s theme and covers the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.
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### Related:
– **[Play Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)**
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In contrast to other *NYT* games such as **[Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle)** or **[Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections)**, **Strands** presents a more demanding challenge by offering only a general hint and no list of words. This creates a brain-teasing puzzle that requires more time to complete. However, if you’re pressed for time or feeling challenged, we have all the hints you need to approach today’s puzzle at your discretion.
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### Related:
– **[Wordle today: Answer and hints for December 30](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-30-2024)**
– **[NYT Connections hints and answers for December 30](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-December-30-2024)**
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## Today’s NYT Strands Theme: **Keep It Classical**
The theme for today centers around **musical arrangements**. The words in the puzzle relate to classical music works.
### Theme Explained
Classical music revolves around words — the titles of its structures and arrangements.
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## Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?
Today’s spangram is **horizontal**.
### Today’s Spangram Answer
The spangram is **Composition**.
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## Word List for December 30
Here are all the solutions for today’s puzzle:
– **Symphony**
– **Prelude**
– **Sonata**
– **Overture**
– **Concerto**
– **Composition**
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### Looking for More Games?
If you enjoy daily puzzles, make sure to visit **[Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games)** for additional hints and solutions. You can also discover a range of games including Mahjong, Sudoku, and free crosswords on our **[games hub](https://games.mashable.com/)**.
Did you miss yesterday’s puzzle? **[Find the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-29-2024).**