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Today’s NYT Strands puzzle #671 features the intriguing theme “I’ve Never Seen That Before!”
The hidden theme words focus on concepts of innovation, originality, and trailblazing ideas.
The spangram, BREAKNEWGROUND, is a multi-word phrase that stretches across the board, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the theme.
NYT Strands for January 3, 2026, kicks off the first weekend puzzle of the new year with a slightly challenging theme. Puzzle #671 revolves around the idea of things being scattered, intense, or creatively groundbreaking.
The theme words focus on originality and new ideas, while the spangram ties everything together with a phrase that suggests innovation and change. Compared to recent puzzles, today’s Strands leans more toward longer words, making it a thoughtful but rewarding solve.
Today’s Theme: All over the place
Hint: Think about moments of emotional chaos or creative explosions. For example, a toddler’s meltdown or a heated argument, where everything feels intense and scattered.
Starting letters of theme words:
SE
FR
IN
OR
NO
Spangram Hint: A phrase that describes doing something completely new or innovative, spanning across the grid.
Here are all the theme words hidden in today’s puzzle:
SEMINAL
FRESH
INVENTIVE
ORIGINAL
NOVEL
Spangram: BREAK NEW GROUND
Today’s puzzle stood out due to the length and abstract nature of the words. While shorter words like FRESH and NOVEL were easier to identify, longer terms such as INVENTIVE and SEMINAL required careful scanning of the grid.
The spangram, BREAK NEW GROUND, was especially satisfying once found, as it clearly defined the theme and made locating the remaining words much easier.
Also Read: Today’s NYT Strands Hints and Answers for January 1, 2026 (Puzzle #669)
Start with shorter, familiar words to anchor the grid early.
Look for the spangram once you sense the theme; it often unlocks the puzzle.
Don’t rush; longer words may snake through the grid in unexpected ways.
Think conceptually, not just literally, when interpreting the theme.
NYT Strands for January 3, 2026, delivered a thoughtful start to the year with a theme centered on originality and creative chaos. The longer word choices added difficulty, but uncovering the spangram BREAK NEW GROUND made the puzzle feel especially rewarding. A strong and satisfying Strands challenge to begin 2026.
Also Read: Today’s NYT Strands Hints and Answers for January 1, 2026 (Puzzle #669)
