Tue Aug 26 11:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
This text is an introduction to “Strands Sidekick,” a companion article designed to help players solve the New York Times’ word puzzle game “Strands.” It informs readers that the article contains hints and potential spoilers. It explains the timing of the article’s release (tied to Eastern Standard Time) and the difficulty rating system used, which is based on tester feedback. It encourages readers to use the hints provided, engage in the comments section to share their experiences, and follow the New York Times Games team on Instagram. It also provides contact information for feedback and links to resources for other NYT word games.
**News Article:**
**”Strands” Players Get a Boost with New “Strands Sidekick” Resource**
NEW YORK – August 26, 2025 – Struggling with today’s “Strands” puzzle? The New York Times is providing a new tool to help word game enthusiasts: “Strands Sidekick.” This companion article offers hints, tips, and a community forum to assist players in untangling the daily word challenge.
Released twice daily to accommodate global time zones, “Strands Sidekick” provides insights into the puzzle’s difficulty, rated by paid testers. Today’s puzzle is rated as “moderate.”
The article features hints, including the first letter or direction of travel for theme words. It encourages players to engage with each other in the comments section, sharing their solving experiences and creative writing related to the puzzle.
The New York Times Games team also encourages players to follow them on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and solving strategies. Feedback can be sent to crosswordeditors@nytimes.com.
“Strands Sidekick” joins the suite of NYT resources, including “Wordle Review,” “Connections Companion,” and the “Spelling Bee Forum,” solidifying The New York Times’ commitment to supporting its dedicated word game community. Be warned: hints and comments may contain spoilers.
First Piper 