Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →NYT Strands puzzle #200, published September 19, 2024, has the theme clue “Work out the bugs.” If you want to solve it yourself first, start with the graduated hints below; the complete answer key is separated by a spoiler warning.
Hints for Strands #200
Use these clues in order and stop when you have enough to continue:
- The theme clue is “Work out the bugs.”
- Think of small creatures rather than software problems. A useful nudge toward the spangram is “Minibeasts.”
- The spangram’s path starts at the top edge in the third column and ends at the bottom edge in the fourth column.
- If you need help from the in-game hint system, find three valid non-theme words of at least four letters. The following clue words can be traced on the board: WARE, SCARE, MIRE, TIRE, BEET, and PLIER.
For another nudge, the theme is “Not quite software issues.” The first-two-letter prompts for the theme words are EA, CR, SP, TE, MI, and BE.
How Strands works
Strands is a themed word-search game played on a six-by-eight grid. Trace adjacent letters, including diagonally, to make words. Theme words and the spangram use letters on the board; the theme words appear in blue, while the spangram is highlighted in yellow. The spangram names the theme and connects opposite sides of the grid. Finding three valid non-theme words of at least four letters unlocks a hint that highlights a theme word.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute#1 Best Overall
Spoiler warning: complete answer key
The five theme words are:
- SPIDER
- MILLIPEDE
- BEETLE
- TERMITE
- EARWIG
Spangram: CREEPYCRAWLIES
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What solvers reported
TechRadar’s Marc McLaren said spotting SPIDER made the theme clear, described this puzzle as easy, and reported finishing in about five minutes. Forbes contributor Kris Holt described finding BEETLE early, followed by EARWIG, TERMITE, SPIDER, and MILLIPEDE, with the spangram last. Those are the writers’ own solving experiences, not a prescribed order or a universal completion time.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
