NYT Unveils Clues & Solutions for January 8, 2025 Crossword

Strands #311 (January 8, 2025) Solution and Hints: Kitchen Remodel

This Strands puzzle presents a challenging word search with the cryptic clue, "Time for an Upgrade." The goal is to uncover six words, including a pangram and five theme-related words, hidden within a letter grid. Need a hand? This guide provides hints and solutions, escalating in difficulty.

Hints (Spoiler-Free):

These hints subtly point towards the puzzle's theme without revealing specific words:

Hint 1: Consider home renovation projects focusing on a specific room.

Hint 2: Think about updating a key area where food preparation occurs.

Hint 3: What appliances or features might you upgrade in a food preparation area?

Partial Solutions (With Spoilers for Two Words):

If you need more assistance, here are two solved words with their locations in the grid:

Word 1: Backsplash

Word 2: Oven

Complete Solution:

Ready for the full answer? The theme is Kitchen Remodel. The words are: Oven, Island, Sink, Backsplash, and Countertop.

Solution Explanation:

The clue, "Time for an Upgrade," perfectly fits the theme because all the listed items are common elements in a kitchen that are often updated or replaced during a remodel.

Ready to test your skills? Play Strands on the New York Times Games website!