If you’ve found your way here, you are likely seeking some tips on playing [**Strands**](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ intricate word-search game.
### What is Strands?
Strands adds a creative flair to the classic word search format. In this game, words can be constructed by linking letters in any orientation — upwards, downwards, sideways, or diagonally. The true test, however, is that words can switch directions, leading to distinctive and unforeseen shapes. Every letter on the grid contributes to a solution, and all the answers are interconnected through a shared theme. There’s also the “spangram” — a unique word or phrase that embodies the day’s theme and covers the entire grid either from left to right or top to bottom.
### A Brain-Teasing Challenge
Distinct from other well-known *New York Times* games like [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/category/connections), Strands provides a more intricate and time-intensive challenge. With just a vague clue and no word list available, it truly assesses your vocabulary and problem-solving abilities. If you find yourself pressed for time or feeling hindered, we have all the hints and solutions you need to approach today’s Strands puzzle at your convenience.
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### **Today’s NYT Strands Theme and Hints**
#### **Theme Hint: Show of Hands**
The words within today’s puzzle pertain to creating characters or handling objects to narrate a story.
#### **Theme Explanation**
The theme centers around puppetry and hand manipulation.
#### **Spangram Hint**
Today’s spangram stretches across the grid vertically.
#### **Spangram Answer**
The spangram for today’s puzzle is **PuppetMaster**.
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### **Word List for January 29**
Below are all the words you’ll require to complete today’s Strands puzzle:
– **Finger**
– **Stick**
– **Glove**
– **Sock**
– **Shadow**
– **Marionette**
– **PuppetMaster**
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### Seeking More Games?
If puzzles pique your interest, visit [**Mashable’s Games page**](https://mashable.com/category/games) for additional hints and solutions for daily games. You’ll also discover an array of other enjoyable challenges like Mahjong, Sudoku, and free crosswords. Craving more puzzles? [**Mashable’s game hub**](https://games.mashable.com/) is at your service.
Missed yesterday’s Strands puzzle? [Here’s the solution for January 28.](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-28-2025)
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Whether you’re an experienced word player or just in search of an entertaining mental challenge, Strands is guaranteed to keep you engaged. Good luck, and enjoy puzzling!