If you’re viewing this, you’re in need of help with Strands, the advanced word-search game from the New York Times.

Strands puts players to the test with a twist on the classic word search. Words can be constructed from adjoining letters in any direction, allowing for directional changes that create distinctive shapes and formations. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution. A theme links all answers, alongside the “spangram,” a unique word or phrase that encompasses the day’s theme, stretching across the grid either horizontally or vertically.

By providing an obscure hint and leaving out the word list, Strands offers a thought-provoking challenge that requires more time than other games such as Wordle and Connections.

If you find yourself at a standstill or lack 10 minutes to tackle today’s puzzle, we supply all the NYT Strands hints you need to advance at your preferred speed.

NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Practice makes perfect

The words are musical terminology.

Today’s NYT Strands theme clearly outlined

These terms pertain to acquiring the skills to play an instrument.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today’s NYT Strands spangram is in a vertical arrangement.

NYT Strands spangram answer for today

Today’s spangram is Piano Lessons.

NYT Strands word list for September 18

– Scale
– Tune
– Theory
– Recital
– Piano Lessons
– Chord
– Technique

Looking for more daily online games? Mashable’s Games page offers additional hints, and if you’re on the lookout for more puzzles, Mashable’s got your games covered!

Explore our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword puzzles, and much more.

Not the day you’re seeking? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Strands.