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.

Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Friday, July 4 originally appeared on Parade. Move over, Wordle, Connections and Mini Crossword—there's a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times's recent game, "Strands," is becoming more and more popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

Need a bit of help with NYT Strands today? No shame in that, and you've come to the right place. Below, we've compiled some useful hints for Strands #488, as well as the answers, should it come to that.