If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’re seeking some assistance with Strands — the New York Times’ ingenious take on the traditional word search puzzle.

Strands invites players to uncover words concealed within a grid of letters. Unlike conventional word searches, words in Strands can go in multiple directions — ascending, descending, diagonally, or even navigating corners — forming distinctive shapes. Each letter in the challenge is part of a solution, and all the words are interconnected by a unifying theme. A unique word or phrase, referred to as the “spangram,” binds the whole puzzle together and spans across the grid either vertically or horizontally.

In search of additional games to enjoy? Explore Mashable’s Games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more.

Strands tends to be slightly more challenging than other NYT games like Wordle or Connections. It doesn’t present a list of words to seek — only a vague hint regarding the theme — turning it into a more demanding and thought-provoking experience.

If you’re pressed for time or find yourself stalled on today’s puzzle, we’ve got the hints and answers you need to advance at your own pace.

Today’s NYT Strands Theme: Fore!

Hint: The words are all associated with golf.

Theme Explained: These are the implements used to strike a golf ball — essentially, various types of golf clubs.

Spangram Direction: Vertical

Today’s Spangram: GolfClubs

Word List for April 16:

– Driver
– Wood
– Putter
– Iron
– Wedge
– Chipper
– Utility
– GolfClubs (spangram)

Desiring more daily puzzles and hints? Head over to Mashable’s Games page for additional word games, puzzles, and brain teasers.

Missed a day? Catch up with the solution to yesterday’s Strands puzzle here.