.png){kind=logo}
Today’s NYT Strands theme revolves around gifts and generosity
Spangram “Generosity” connects all theme words on the grid
Hints guide players toward donations, rewards, and offerings
The New York Times Strands keeps showing why it’s more than just a word search. Each day drops players into a 6×8 grid, where each correct answer feeds into a single shared idea. As the board fills up, that idea slowly comes into focus, giving the puzzle a quiet sense of storytelling rather than a rush to finish.
At the heart of Strands is the spangram. It is the longest word on the board, weaving across the grid and touching multiple edges. When you find it, it lights up in yellow, while the related theme words turn blue. That small visual shift delivers a genuine “aha” moment, the kind that tells you you’re thinking in the right direction. It’s satisfying without being flashy, and it works whether you’re solving over coffee or grinding through a tougher day.
Strands doesn’t leave players completely on their own. Every puzzle comes with an official hint, plus an optional extra clue if you need a little push.
Official hint: It is a gift
Extra hint: Philanthropy is the theme of the day
Together, these hints gently steer you toward ideas linked to giving and generosity. The puzzle isn’t about one specific act or object; it’s about the many ways people give, reward, and share, both formally and informally.
If you still hit a wall, the game offers a safety net. Finding three valid, non-theme, four-letter or longer words unlocks a hint that reveals one hidden theme word. Often, that single reveal is enough to get everything moving again.
GENEROSITY: Once this word appears, the puzzle suddenly makes sense. It anchors the entire grid, pulling together ideas of rewards, donations, and offerings into one clear theme. From there, spotting the remaining words feels far more natural.
Each theme word reflects a different expression of giving:
BONUS: A little extra, offered as a reward.
DONATION: A direct act of giving, often for a cause.
GRANT: Support provided with purpose or intent.
AWARD: Recognition given for effort or achievement.
PRESENT: A gift tied to celebration or thoughtfulness.
OFFERING: Something given freely, without obligation.
Together, they paint a broad picture of how generosity shows up in everyday life.
Today’s NYT Strands puzzle keeps things simple, and that’s its strength. The theme of the puzzle becomes evident through the spangram GENEROSITY, which establishes a standard that remains unchanging throughout the entire puzzle.
The solution process functions as a peaceful experience that demonstrates to users the effective qualities of Strands through its straightforward concepts, subtle assistance, and its satisfying experience of watching all components come together.
