Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns.

If you’re looking for hints and answers for Strands for Friday, July 4, 2025, read on—I’ll share some clues and tips, and finally the solution to the puzzle with the theme “Let’s have a picnic!”

Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Thursday, July 3 originally appeared on Parade. Move over, Wordle, Connections and Mini Crossword—there's a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times's recent game, "Strands," is becoming more and more popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.