Connections Strategies
Expert techniques to solve NYT Connections faster and more consistently.
6 Winning Strategies
The Scan Method
Before guessing, scan all 16 words and mentally group obvious pairs or trios.
- Read every word carefully first
- Look for words that obviously go together
- Note words with multiple possible meanings
- Identify potential red herrings
Start With Yellow
Yellow is always easiest. Lock it in first to simplify the board.
- Find the most straightforward category first
- Look for simple, concrete groupings
- Avoid overthinking the yellow category
- Use it to eliminate 4 words from consideration
Purple Last
Purple often involves wordplay or obscure references. Save it for when you have fewer options.
- Don't waste guesses on purple early
- Wait until only 4-8 words remain
- Look for unusual word patterns
- Consider puns, prefixes, or pop culture
The Elimination Game
When stuck, focus on what DOESN'T fit rather than what does.
- If 3 words clearly fit, find what blocks the 4th
- Identify words that seem to fit multiple categories
- These 'bridge words' often reveal the trick
- Process of elimination is your friend
Pattern Recognition
Common category patterns repeat. Learn to spot them.
- Types of X (foods, animals, sports)
- ___ Word (compound words)
- Synonyms or related meanings
- Pop culture references (movies, music)
The 'One Away' Technique
When you're one away, systematically swap each word.
- Note which word might be the imposter
- Look for words that fit multiple categories
- Try swapping the least obvious choice
- The imposter usually has a clever alternate meaning
Common Category Patterns
Recognizing these patterns will help you identify categories faster.
🏆 Pro Tips
- •Never guess randomly - each mistake costs you
- •If stuck, step away and come back with fresh eyes
- •Learn from mistakes - review categories you missed
- •Play daily to recognize pattern trends
Strategy FAQ
What's the best strategy for NYT Connections?
Start with the yellow (easiest) category to reduce the board. Look for obvious groupings first, and save tricky wordplay categories for last when you have fewer options.
How do I spot the purple category?
Purple categories often involve wordplay, obscure references, or words that can precede/follow a common word. If a connection seems too clever, it's probably purple.
Why do I keep getting 'one away'?
One away usually means you have a 'bridge word' - a word that fits multiple categories. Look for words with double meanings or unusual alternate uses.