If you’re stuck on today’s NYT Strands puzzle for Friday, April 18, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re here for a gentle push or just want the full list of answers, today’s hints, spangram, and solutions are all listed below to help you ace this word-finding challenge.
Before diving into today’s clues, here’s a quick refresher on how Strands works, in case you’re new or just need a reminder.
What Is NYT Strands?
Strands is one of the latest word games from The New York Times, and it’s already gaining a loyal fan base, sitting proudly alongside Wordle, Connections, and the NYT Mini Crossword.
Every day, the game gives you a 6×8 letter grid and a theme clue. Your job is to find all the hidden words in the puzzle that relate to the theme. These words will stay highlighted in blue once found.
But there’s a twist! In addition to the theme words, there’s one extra-special word called the Spangram. The spangram connects at least two sides of the board and reveals the central theme. This word will be highlighted in yellow once discovered
How To Play NYT Strands
Here’s a quick step-by-step if you’re new:
- Open the game via the NYT Games app or on the official NYT Strands page.
- You’ll see a 6×8 grid of letters and a clue at the top.
- Swipe to select letters and form words that fit the theme.
- Found a correct theme word? It turns blue.
- Found the spangram? It turns yellow and reveals the overall category.
- Keep finding theme-related words until the grid is complete.
You can also find hint words by discovering three non-theme words. Once you do, you’ll unlock a “Hint” button that helps uncover one of the theme words.
Today’s NYT Strands Clue – April 18, 2025
Theme Clue: “All in the family”
Think about things that relate to family members, relationships, and maybe even household roles or titles.
Today’s NYT Strands Spangram
The Spangram for April 18 is:
RELATIVES
This word travels across multiple sides of the board and reflects the overall theme of family ties.
Today’s NYT Strands Answers – April 18, 2025
Below is the full list of words you need to complete today’s puzzle:
- MOTHER
- FATHER
- SISTER
- BROTHER
- COUSIN
- UNCLE
- AUNT
- NIECE
- NEPHEW
Each of these words fits perfectly under the theme of “All in the family,” and once you find them, you’ll have completed today’s Strands successfully!
Tips for Solving NYT Strands Puzzles
Strands can be a little trickier than Wordle because of its word search format and abstract themes. Here are a few tips to help you solve future puzzles:
- Use the clue strategically: The daily clue is often broad, but it sets your mental direction.
- Start from the corners: Look for long words that connect far ends of the grid. These are more likely to be spangrams.
- Scan for prefixes/suffixes: Words like “-ER,” “-ING,” or “UN-” might help you spot patterns.
- Use filler words for hints: Even if a word doesn’t match the theme, three such filler words will unlock a helpful hint.
- Think broadly about the clue: For example, “All in the family” can include both nuclear and extended family.
Missed Yesterday’s Puzzle?
If you’re catching up or just curious, here’s a quick look at:
🗓 Thursday, April 17 Strands Clue: “Take a hike”
Spangram: WALKINGTRAILS
Theme Words: PATH, TRAIL, ROUTE, HIKE, FOOTPATH, etc.
Why NYT Strands Is Worth Adding to Your Daily Routine
Strands is more than just a word game—it’s a cognitive workout. It challenges your vocabulary, tests your pattern recognition, and even improves your memory. Unlike Wordle, which focuses on logic and deduction, Strands rewards creativity and lateral thinking.
Plus, you never know what quirky theme you’ll get next. From pop culture references to scientific categories, Strands keeps things fresh and unexpected.
Where to Play NYT Strands
You can play today’s Strands puzzle via:
- The NYT Games website
- The NYT Games App on iOS or Android
Final Thoughts
That’s a wrap on today’s Strands puzzle for April 18, 2025! Whether you needed a single hint or all the answers, we hope this helped you conquer the grid.
Come back tomorrow for a fresh challenge—and remember, every spangram solved is a step toward sharper thinking and stronger vocabulary.
Until then, happy puzzling!
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