If you’re visiting this page, you are likely seeking some advice on engaging with [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of a word search challenge.
### How to Engage with Strands
Strands offers a fresh take on the classic word search format. You can create words by connecting letters in all directions—up, down, left, right, or diagonally. Additionally, words can change their trajectory, leading to intriguing shapes and designs. Every letter within the grid contributes to solving the puzzle. Each game centers on a key theme, with one specific word or phrase, referred to as the “spangram,” embodying this theme while stretching across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
Providing just a minimal hint and no list of words, Strands prompts players to think critically, making it a more prolonged experience compared to *Wordle* or *Connections*.
Should you find yourself in a bind or simply lack the time to tackle today’s puzzle, we offer all the hints necessary for you to proceed at your own timing.
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### **Today’s NYT Strands Theme Hint: Sound Switching**
The words featured in today’s puzzle are associated with a kind of speech mistake.
### **Theme Clarification**
These words are frequently confused or scrambled inadvertently.
### **Spangram Hint: Orientation**
Today’s spangram stretches **horizontally** across the grid.
### **Spangram Solution**
The spangram for today’s puzzle is **Spoonerisms**.
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### **NYT Strands Word Compilation for March 17**
– **Bedding**
– **Stricken**
– **Blushing**
– **Crow**
– **Wells**
– **Chips**
– **Spoonerisms**
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### **Additional Games and Clues**
In search of more daily challenges? Visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for further hints and answers. If you’re interested in more mind puzzles, explore our [games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more.
Did you miss yesterday’s Strands puzzle? [Discover the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-16-2025).