Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns.

Need some assistance with NYT Strands today? Today's theme — "One for the Swifties" — is obvious, but that's not much help if you're not one (I am not). Below, we've compiled some useful hints for Strands #285,

In today's puzzle, there are eight theme words to find (including the spangram). Hint: The first one can be found in the top-half of the board. Here are the first two letters for each word: Today's spangram answer on Thursday, December 12, 2024, is COOKIECUTTER.