Strands is a challenging word puzzle game. You're given a jumble of letters and a single clue. Your mission? Uncover the theme, find all the themed words, and locate them within the letter grid. Today's puzzle, however, presents a tougher-than-usual challenge, with tricky words and a less-than-helpful hint.
Need a hand? This article provides plenty of assistance.
NYT Games Strands Puzzle #311, January 8, 2025

Today's Strands puzzle features the clue "Time for an Upgrade." Six words need to be found: a pangram and five themed words.
New York Times Games Strands Clues
Seeking spoiler-free hints? Each section below offers a clue without revealing any puzzle words, but will nudge you closer to the theme.
General Hint 1

Hint 1: Redo a part of your home.
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General Hint 2

Hint 2: Revamp your food-making room.
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General Hint 3

Hint 3: Upgrades you might make to your food-making room.
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Spoilers for Two Words in Today's Strands
Need a spoiler but want to avoid non-themed word solutions? Each section below reveals one word with its location in the puzzle.
Spoiler 1

Word 1: Backsplash

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Spoiler 2

Word 2: Oven

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The Answer to Today's New York Times Games Strands
Ready for the complete solution to this minimalist puzzle? The full answer, including word locations, is below.

The category is Kitchen Remodel. The words are Oven, Island, Sink, Backsplash, and Countertop.

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Today's Strands Explained
Still stumped? This section explains how the theme, words, and clue connect in this puzzle game.

"Time for an Upgrade" fits perfectly because these items are commonly replaced during a kitchen remodel. Each word represents a kitchen element that can be updated for a fresh, new look.
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Ready to play? Visit the New York Times Games Strands website—it's playable on most devices with a browser.