If you’re reading this, you are likely seeking some assistance with playing [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of a word search puzzle.
### How to Participate in Strands
Strands presents players with a new spin on the classic word search. You can create words by linking letters in any direction—up, down, left, right, or diagonally. Additionally, words have the flexibility to shift directions, forming creative shapes. Each letter in the puzzle is integral to a solution. Every puzzle revolves around a central theme, with one key word or phrase, known as the “spangram,” that embodies this theme while spanning the grid either horizontally or vertically.
### What Sets Strands Apart?
In contrast to other NYT games like [Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections), Strands does not offer a word list, making it a more demanding and lengthy challenge. Players must instead depend on a subtle clue to discover the words.
If you find yourself stuck or short on time, we’ve prepared hints to help you tackle today’s Strands puzzle at your leisure.
—
## **Hints for Today’s NYT Strands**
### **Theme Hint: Drive to Survive**
The words featured in today’s puzzle are centered around racing.
### **Elaboration on the Theme**
These terms do not pertain to NASCAR.
### **Spangram Clue: Direction**
Today’s spangram is presented **horizontally**.
### **Spangram Solution**
The spangram for today is **FormulaOne**.
—
## **NYT Strands Word List for March 16**
– **Practice**
– **Sprint**
– **Qualifying**
– **Podium**
– **Pits**
– **Race**
– **FormulaOne**
—
### **Interested in More Games?**
For those looking for additional daily puzzles, visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for more clues and tests. You can also explore [Mashable’s game hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and beyond.
Did you miss yesterday’s puzzle? [Retrieve the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-15-2025).