If you’re hooked on the daily NYT Strands puzzle, you’re not alone. It’s a fresh word game from the New York Times that combines elements of a word search with clever, theme-based twists.

30 September 2025 NYT Strands Theme: “For goodness' sake”

Today’s Strands puzzle reminded solvers of the qualities that shape strong character and lasting bonds. The answers revolved around essential human values — the guiding traits we strive to live by.

30 September 2025 NYT Strands: Hints

Need a nudge before seeing the solutions? Try these clues:

  • School Rules: Think of words you often hear in a classroom or at assemblies.
  • Moral Compass: These guide choices and actions.
  • Community Builders: Each word is about how we treat others.
  • Shared Strengths: Not physical, but social and emotional.
  • Golden Rules: Respect and empathy are part of this set.
  • Work Together: One answer is all about collaboration.
  • Do the Right Thing: A word tied to truthfulness is here.
  • Spangram: A single word that ties them together — what they all are.

Today’s Strands Answers

  • DISCIPLINE – structure and self-control
  • HONESTY – truthfulness and integrity
  • COOPERATION – working together
  • EMPATHY – understanding others’ feelings
  • RESPECT – treating others with dignity

Spangram

VALUES — the overarching theme that unites today’s words, representing the principles we hold dear.

How Strands works

Strands is a daily word search puzzle with a twist:

  • You’re given a theme.
  • The grid is packed with hidden words tied to that theme.
  • Words can run in any direction, including diagonals.
  • Once you find all the theme words, you’re done!

Each puzzle usually has around 6–8 theme words.

How to get and use hints

Hints are built right into Strands, and they’re super useful if you’re stuck:

  • To earn a hint, find any non-theme word of at least four letters in the grid.
  • Each valid extra word gives you one hint.
  • When you use a hint, one of the theme words will be revealed automatically, helping you move forward.

Pro tip: Don’t just burn hints — use them strategically when the grid feels impossible. Sometimes a single revealed word unlocks the entire board.

Tips to become a NYT Strands pro

  1. Start with obvious words. Look for clear connections to the theme first.
  2. Scan diagonals early. Strands loves to hide words at an angle.
  3. Build around found words. Once one word is cleared, the leftover letters often point to the next.
  4. Use hints wisely. Earn them steadily by spotting extra words, then save them for when you’re truly stuck.
  5. Think about synonyms. The theme clue isn’t always literal — broaden your thinking.

Final Thoughts

This Strands wasn’t just about words; it was about reminders. The puzzle highlighted the qualities that build trust, harmony, and resilience — a thoughtful pause to reflect on life’s guiding principles.

September 30’s Strands closed the month with a puzzle full of meaning. It was a fitting reminder that beyond the grid, living by values keeps us connected and strong.