What Is the NYT Connections Game?

The New York Times Connections game is a daily word puzzle that challenges players to group 16 words into four categories. Each category shares a common theme. Your goal is to find four sets of related words. The game is fun, engaging, and great for anyone who enjoys wordplay and puzzles.

Each set of four words fits into a themed group. These groups are color-coded by difficulty:

• Yellow – easiest
• Green – moderate
• Blue – hard
• Purple – trickiest

You win the game when you correctly identify all four groups with fewer than four mistakes.

How to Play the NYT Connections Game

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. You start with a 4×4 grid of 16 words.
2. Your task is to group them into four categories of four words each.
3. Tap or click four words you think are related, then hit “Submit.”
4. If your guess is correct, the group locks in with a color.
5. If your guess is wrong, the words remain in the grid and you try again.

You’re allowed up to four mistakes before the game ends.

Understanding Categories

The categories vary widely. Some may relate to:

• Pop culture
• Food
• Slang terms
• Famous names
• Double meanings

This makes each day’s puzzle unique and mentally stimulating.

How to Get Better at the NYT Connections Game

Focus on the Easy Group First

Start with the yellow group, which is usually the most obvious. Look for words that clearly belong together like fruits, colors, or animals.

Be Aware of Wordplay and Double Meanings

Some words may have more than one interpretation. For example, words like “beat,” “track,” and “jam” could relate to music. Others might be linked by idioms or phrases.

Don’t Overthink One Group

If you’re stuck on a group, move on to another. Sometimes solving a different group will make the remaining categories clearer.

Use Process of Elimination

Each time you solve a group, those words disappear from the grid. This narrows down your options and helps reveal connections in the remaining words.

How to Get Hints for Today’s NYT Connections Game

Use Logical Grouping

If you’re stuck, start loosely grouping words that feel connected—even if you’re unsure. You might discover connections hint today patterns you missed earlier.

Think Thematically

Consider categories like:

• Types of vehicles
• Common phrases
• Famous duos
• Words with similar endings

Expanding your thinking helps uncover less obvious groupings.

How to Get Answers for Today’s NYT Connections Game

Where to Look

If you’re completely stuck and want help, there are online puzzle communities and blogs that post daily hints and full answers. These include:

• The category names
• The four grouped sets
• Explanations for tricky connections

Just be cautious if you want to avoid spoilers and preserve the challenge.

Final Thoughts

The NYT Connections game is a fun and challenging way to test your logic, vocabulary, and creativity each day. With practice, pattern recognition, and a few strategic moves, you’ll improve your score and confidence. Whether you’re solving alone or with friends, it’s a great daily brain workout.