How to Start a Strands Puzzle: Finding Your First Word

Introduction

Starting a new Strands puzzle can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the game. But don’t worry—everyone starts somewhere! This guide will help you confidently find your first word and get the ball rolling.

Common Scenarios or Questions

“I open the puzzle and just see a jumble of letters. Where do I even begin?”
“Is there a trick to spotting the first word?”
“What if I get stuck right away?”

Step-by-Step Guide / Key Concepts

Step 1: Read the Theme Clue
At the top of every Strands puzzle, there’s a theme clue. Take a moment to think about what kinds of words might fit that theme. This will give you a mental shortlist to look for.
Step 2: Scan for Familiar Letter Patterns
Look for common prefixes (like “re-”, “un-”) or suffixes (“-ing”, “-ed”), or even short, simple words you know. Sometimes, spotting a two- or three-letter combo can spark an idea.
Step 3: Start at the Edges or Corners
The outer edges and corners of the grid are great places to begin. Try connecting letters in different directions—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

Practical Tips

Don’t be afraid to guess! If you see a possible word, try selecting it. There’s no penalty for mistakes.
If you’re stuck, take a short break and come back with fresh eyes. Sometimes a word will jump out at you.

Common Mistakes

Focusing only on long words and missing easy short ones.
Ignoring the theme clue and just randomly searching.

Summary & Encouragement

Finding your first word is the hardest part, but once you do, the rest of the puzzle gets easier. Remember, Strands is about having fun and stretching your brain. Every player, no matter how experienced, started with that first word—so give it a go!

FAQ

Q: What if I really can’t find anything? A: Try looking for the most common English words, or scan for simple patterns like “the”, “and”, or “ing”.
Q: Does the first word have to be a theme word? A: No, any valid word counts! But theme words will help you progress faster.