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.
13 February 2026 NYT Strands Theme: “See what I mean?”
Today’s theme leaned into the idea of explaining things visually rather than verbally. The grid felt cohesive and modern, with several longer words that were easy to recognize once the theme clicked. The spangram was especially satisfying, stretching across the board and neatly summarizing the entire concept behind the puzzle.
13 February 2026 NYT Strands Hints
- Think about tools people use to explain ideas in presentations or classrooms.
- Look for words related to visual representation rather than spoken explanation.
- Some answers might appear in academic, business, or media contexts.
- Expect a mix of shorter and longer words scattered in different directions.
- The spangram ties the entire list together as a general term for these kinds of tools.
13 February 2026 NYT Strands Answers
- Chart (used to display data visually)
- Model (a visual or physical representation of something)
- Video (moving visual content used to explain or demonstrate)
- Diagram (a simplified drawing that explains structure or process)
- Photo (a captured image used to illustrate a point)
- Infographic (a visual combination of data and design for clarity)
Spangram
Visual Aids
The spangram perfectly captures today’s theme, referring to tools that help clarify ideas through images, graphics, or demonstrations rather than relying solely on spoken or written explanations.
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
- Start with obvious words. Look for clear connections to the theme first.
- Scan diagonals early. Strands loves to hide words at an angle.
- Build around found words. Once one word is cleared, the leftover letters often point to the next.
- Use hints wisely. Earn them steadily by spotting extra words, then save them for when you’re truly stuck.
- Think about synonyms. The theme clue isn’t always literal — broaden your thinking.
Final thoughts
Today’s puzzle felt approachable once the visual theme became clear. The words were familiar, but spotting how they were placed in the grid added just enough challenge. A clean, satisfying solve overall. How many did you find before the theme clicked?
