If you’ve arrived here, you might be seeking some assistance on how to play [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of the traditional word search game.
### How to Engage with Strands
Strands invites players to spot words by linking letters in any direction—up, down, left, right, or diagonally. In contrast to a typical word search, words can shift direction, creating fascinating configurations. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution, and all words correspond to a shared theme. Moreover, every puzzle features a unique word or phrase termed the “spangram,” which captures the theme and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
Strands sets itself apart from other NYT games such as [Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) and [Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections) by providing only a vague clue instead of a list of words, making it a more demanding and time-intensive challenge.
Should you find yourself at a standstill or pressed for time, we have hints available to assist you in solving today’s Strands puzzle at your leisure.
### Today’s NYT Strands Hint: *Achieving Closure*
The words in today’s challenge relate to apparel.
### Theme Description
All the words indicate various methods to secure or fasten items, especially clothing.
### Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?
Today’s spangram is positioned horizontally.
### Today’s Spangram Solution
The spangram for today’s puzzle is **Fasteners**.
### NYT Strands Word Compilation for March 2
– **Clasp**
– **Button**
– **Snap**
– **Velcro**
– **Zipper**
– **Buckle**
– **Magnet**
– **Fasteners**
### Additional Games and Tips
In search of more daily challenges? Visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for further hints and answers. You can also delve into [Mashable’s game hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more.
Missed the previous day’s puzzle? [Locate the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-1-2025).