Strands Puzzle #311 Solution and Walkthrough (January 8, 2025)
Strands presents a challenging word puzzle: decipher the theme and locate themed words within a letter grid, using a single clue. Today's puzzle, however, proves trickier than usual, featuring difficult words and a less-than-helpful hint ("Time for an Upgrade"). Need assistance? This walkthrough provides varying levels of support.
The Puzzle:
The clue is "Time for an Upgrade." Six words need to be found: a pangram and five themed words.
Hints (Spoiler-Free):
These hints progressively narrow down the theme without revealing specific words.
Hint 1: 
Redo a part of your home.
Hint 2: Revamp your food-making room.
Hint 3: Upgrades you might make to your food-making room.
Partial Spoilers (One Word at a Time):
These provide one spoiled word with its location in the grid.
Spoiler 1: Word 1: Backsplash
Spoiler 2: Word 2: Oven
Complete Solution:
The theme is Kitchen Remodel. The words are: Oven, Island, Sink, Backsplash, and Countertop.
Solution Explanation:
The clue, "Time for an Upgrade," fits perfectly, as these items are commonly replaced during a kitchen remodel. Each word represents a replaceable kitchen component.
Play Strands on the New York Times Games website – accessible on most devices with a browser.
