NYT Strands, the daily word-search puzzle from the New York Times, returned today with a theme titled “What a piece of work!”. This grid focused on classic mechanical components, all tied together with a clean, fitting spangram running across the board.

29 November 2025 NYT Strands Theme: “What a piece of work!”

Today’s theme played with the foundational elements of basic mechanics. The puzzle leaned into straightforward physics vocabulary, but the placement of each item required careful scanning. The theme felt satisfying—simple components, cleverly hidden, and supported by a crisp spangram.

29 November 2025 NYT Strands: Hints

  • Think of the fundamental devices you learn in early physics or engineering lessons.
  • Look for terms describing basic mechanisms that convert force or direction.
  • Several answers are short and common, but easy to overlook in diagonal paths.
  • Expect names of everyday objects that perform mechanical work.
  • The spangram ties the entire grid together with a phrase describing the whole category.
  • Try checking the edges of the grid—this puzzle hides straight lines efficiently.

29 November 2025 NYT Strands: Answers

  • wheel
  • axle
  • plane
  • pulley
  • wedge
  • screw

Spangram

Simple machine
A clear category that unifies all the theme words—each answer represents one of the classical simple machines taught in physics.

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.

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

Today’s puzzle offered a clean, classic challenge with a theme that felt both educational and fun. The vocabulary was approachable, but the grid layout required some sharp scanning. How many did you uncover on your own?