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.

Looking for some help with today's NYT Strands? An extra hint and the answers are right here to help you finish the grid and keep your streak intact.

The answers to today's Strands, game #489, are… My first thought when I saw the theme “every second counts” was the TV show The Bear, as that phrase has appeared many times across all four seasons. However, I soon realized that was very niche and we were actually looking for a much more literal interpretation.