The New York Times crossword puzzle is a beloved daily tradition for many people. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzler or a casual solver, there’s something satisfying about filling in those empty squares and finding the solution to each clue. But what happens when you’re stumped and need a little help? That’s where the NYT Strands come in.
The NYT Strands are hints and answers provided by the New York Times puzzle editors to help solvers who are struggling with a particular puzzle. These hints are usually published on the New York Times website or in the print edition of the newspaper, giving puzzlers a nudge in the right direction without giving away the answer completely.
For the puzzle published on August 13, 2021, the NYT Strands provided hints and answers for some of the trickier clues in the crossword. One of the hints given was for the clue ”Suffix with switch,” which stumped many solvers. The answer, as revealed by the NYT Strands, was “EROO.” Another challenging clue was “Johann Sebastian Bach’s ‘___-Arabian Suite’,” with the answer being “PEAS.”
In addition to providing hints for specific clues, the NYT Strands also offer general advice for solving crossword puzzles. For example, they may suggest looking for common crossword puzzle words like “epee” or “aorta” that often appear in puzzles. They may also recommend using a crossword puzzle solver tool to help fill in difficult blanks.
While some purists may argue that using hints and answers takes away from the challenge of solving a crossword puzzle, many solvers appreciate the assist when they’re stuck on a particularly tough clue. Whether you use the NYT Strands sparingly or rely on them heavily, they can be a helpful tool for getting through a challenging puzzle.
So the next time you find yourself scratching your head over a tricky clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle, don’t be afraid to consult the NYT Strands for a little guidance. After all, the goal is to have fun and exercise your brain, and a little help along the way can only enhance the puzzling experience.
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