Today’s NYT Strands puzzle has a theme rooted in childhood magic — the kind that happens while you’re fast asleep. If you’re having trouble piecing it together, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll find layered hints starting with gentle nudges, building all the way to the full answer list.
What Is NYT Strands?
Strands is the New York Times’ elevated take on the classic word search. Letters in the grid connect in any direction — up, down, left, right, or diagonally — and words can change direction mid-path, creating unusual shapes. Every single letter on the board belongs to one of the answers, so nothing is filler. Each puzzle also includes a special “spangram,” a word or phrase that encapsulates the day’s theme and stretches all the way across the grid, either horizontally or vertically.
Today’s Theme Hint
Today’s theme clue is: “While you were sleeping…”
The words are all related to a mythical creature — specifically one tied to a beloved children’s tradition. Think about what happens in the middle of the night after a young child loses something small and precious.
Spangram Hint
Still not sure? Here’s a directional nudge: today’s spangram runs horizontally across the grid.
Spangram Answer
Today’s spangram is Tooth Fairy.
It’s the perfect thematic anchor — the Tooth Fairy is the mythical figure at the heart of this puzzle, and the words surrounding it all connect to the ritual and imagery associated with her.
All Word Answers for March 31, 2026
Here is the complete word list for today’s NYT Strands puzzle:
- Wings
- Exchange
- Tutu
- Wand
- Coin
- Note
- Pillow
- Tooth Fairy (spangram)
Full Summary
Every answer in today’s puzzle connects directly to the Tooth Fairy and the childhood tradition she represents. The spangram ** of a tiny, winged figure in a frilly skirt. Wand is the other essential prop, the glowing tool she carries on her nightly rounds.
The transaction itself is reflected in Exchange, Coin, and Note — the Tooth Fairy famously takes the lost tooth and leaves money behind, whether in coin or paper form. Pillow is where the tooth gets placed before bedtime, tucked underneath so the fairy can make the swap while the child sleeps.
Together, these eight words paint a complete picture of one of the most enduring childhood rituals in folklore. It’s a well-constructed puzzle that rewards solvers who can think past the individual words and see the whole scene.
More NYT Strands Answers
Looking for hints from recent Strands puzzles? Here are the three most recent editions:
- March 29, 2026 NYT Strands — “A Bit Peckish” Hints and Answers
- March 28, 2026 NYT Strands — “Just Write” Hints and Answers
- March 27, 2026 NYT Strands — “Just Right” Hints and Answers
Need help with other daily puzzles? Check out the March 29, 2026 Wordle #1744 Hint and Answer or the March 29, 2026 NYT Connections Puzzle #1022 Hints and Answers.
Shahid Maqsood is a digital entrepreneur and SEO specialist focused on building engaging web experiences. He is the creator of DotWordle, combining creativity with smart, user-friendly design.
