.png){kind=logo}
Today’s NYT Strands puzzle centers on resume-related terms linked to careers and hiring.
The spangram “RESUME” neatly connects all theme words across the grid.
Recognizing the theme early makes solving faster and reduces reliance on hints.
The New York Times Strands puzzle for Monday, January 12, brings a brilliant and very familiar theme, tied closely to professional life. The challenge combines word search techniques with the thoughts of the theme, making it relaxing and yet mentally stimulating for the audience of the puzzle. Here comes a very detailed guide with clues, solutions, and interpretations to aid in dismembering today’s puzzle.
Today's NYT Strands official theme, “Appeal to a hire power,” is a playful twist on the phrase “higher power.” Here, the focus shifts to hiring and job applications. Every word in the puzzle connects to something commonly found on a resume or job profile. Once the theme clicks, the board becomes much easier to navigate.
Here are gentle clues for each theme word, including starting letters and approximate length:
ED… (9 letters) – Academic background or schooling
AW… (6 letters) – Honors or recognitions
NA… (4 letters) – Personal identifier
CO… (7 letters) – How recruiters reach out
SK… (6 letters) – Professional abilities
EX… (10 letters) – Work history
RE… (6 letters) – The document that ties everything together
The non-spangram theme words in today’s puzzle are:
EDUCATION
AWARDS
NAME
CONTACT
SKILLS
EXPERIENCE
Each of these fits neatly into the broader idea of job applications and career profiles.
The spangram for January 12 is RESUME.
This word perfectly summarizes the theme, acting as the central concept that connects all other answers. As expected in Strands, it stretches across the grid and uses letters that link multiple sides.
To begin, think of the categories that you would associate with the hint of the theme.
First, focus on the longer words, as they are generally the most visible ones in the grid.
Pay attention to diagonal connections, since many theme words bend or change direction.
Use non-theme words purposely to reveal hints when necessary.
Smart and accessible, the theme of the January 12 NYT Strands puzzle feels grounded in everyday experience. Beyond entertainment, puzzles like these sharpen pattern recognition, vocabulary, and logical thinking. Visit us every day for more guides on NYT Strands Today, which will also include hints, answers, and spangram breakdowns.
