NYT Strands Puzzle – January 8, 2024 (Game 677)
January 8, 2026
Looking for a different day? A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day based on your time zone. This means some players are always engaged with "today's" puzzle while others might be working on "yesterday's." If you're interested in Thursday's puzzle instead, click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Thursday, January 8.
What is NYT Strands?
Strands is the latest word game from The New York Times, joining the ranks of Wordle, Spelling Bee, and Connections. It offers a fun but challenging experience. As with other puzzles, some hints can make your game easier—so keep reading for tips. Warning: Spoilers ahead! Do not read further if you wish to avoid seeing today’s answers.
Today’s Puzzle (Game #677) – Key Hints
1. Theme of the Day
Today's theme: For Cubs fans
2. Unlock Clue Words
Playing any of these words will unlock the in-game hint system:
- GEAR
- RACE
- BACK
- KNOW
- DIAL
- GRACE
- READ
3. Spangram Details
- The spangram (a hidden word puzzle within the game) contains 11 letters.
- It touches two sides of the board:
- Top, 5th column
- Bottom, 6th column
4. Today's Answers
Below are the correct responses for today’s game. Proceed carefully—do not scroll further if you want to discover answers on your own!
Today's Answers (Game #677)
- POLAR
- GRIZZLY
- PANDAS
- PECTACLE
- DBROWN
- BLACK
Spangram: BEARSINMIND
My Rating: Easy
My Score: Perfect
While thinking of different bears (koala, teddy, Paddington), the presence of "PECTACLE" hints at spectacled bears—like the adorable koalas or even Paddington. But perhaps the wordplay is more mysterious, especially with a challenging spangram!
Yesterday’s Answers (Game #676) – Thursday, January 8
- BANISHMENT
- FAITHFUL
- MISSION
- CASTLES
- SHIELDS
Spangram: THETRAITORS
What is NYT Strands?
Strands is The New York Times’ evolving word game, succeeding popular titles like Wordle and Connections. It’s fully integrated into the NYT Games platform and can be played on desktop or mobile devices. If you’re looking for detailed strategies, there's a comprehensive guide that offers tips and hints to help you solve the puzzle daily.
About the Author
Johnny, a seasoned freelance pop culture journalist, has been covering the internet, music, football, and famous personalities since the advent of the iPhone. Originally known as the Pop Detective, he’s interviewed icons like Elton John and Blur, and has had his share of quirky experiences—like fact-checking German cookers or chatting with pigeons in North London. When not writing, he loves cycling, shouting at pigeons, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
Enjoy solving the NYT Strands puzzles! Remember, the key to mastering it is patience and a sharp mind.