Strands Puzzle #311 Solution and Walkthrough (January 8, 2025)

Strands presents a challenging word puzzle: you're given a letter grid and a clue, needing to identify the theme and themed words hidden within. Today's puzzle, with its cryptic clue and difficult words, proves especially tricky. This guide provides assistance without spoiling the entire solution.

The Puzzle: The clue for NYT Games Strands Puzzle #311 is "Time for an Upgrade." Six words are 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 reveal one word and its location in the grid, without compromising the overall theme:

• Spoiler 1: Word 1: Backsplash

• Spoiler 2: Word 2: Oven

Complete Solution:

The theme is Kitchen Remodel. The words are: Oven, Island, Sink, Backsplash, Countertop.

Solution Explanation:

The clue, "Time for an Upgrade," perfectly fits the theme. Each word represents a kitchen element often replaced during a remodel.

Ready to test your skills? Play Strands on the New York Times Games website—accessible on most devices with a browser.