Today's hints
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The answer
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Why this answer
The letters, categories, or grid logic that made this one tricky.
What made this one tricky:
- The spangram JOBTRAINING is the backbone of the grid; solve shorter theme words first, then use the long phrase to close the board.
The spangram JOBTRAINING states the learn-by-doing idea directly. APPRENTICE, DISCIPLE, INTERN, MENTEE, and PROTEGE are all learners whose progress depends on instruction, observation, or guided practice.
Recent Strands answers
Stuck on a streak day? Past solves keep you moving.
Catching up? Here are the most recent solutions.
| Date | Puzzle | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Sat, Aug 15, 2026 | Strands #895 | Spangram: INCHURCH; Theme words: ALTAR, BIBLE, CANDLES, HYMNAL, LECTERN, PEWS, PULPIT |
| Fri, Aug 14, 2026 | Strands #894 | INVENTIONS — MICROWAVE, PENICILLIN, PLASTIC, SLINKY, VELCRO |
| Thu, Aug 13, 2026 | Strands #893 | FIREBRAND — FERVENT, FIERCE, HEATED, INTENSE, TORRID, ZEALOUS |
More from the desk
A practical board approach
Find INTERN or MENTEE first because their familiar endings are easier to trace. The longer APPRENTICE and JOBTRAINING then consume distinctive letter runs, leaving DISCIPLE and PROTEGE to complete the learner theme.
FAQ
What is today's NYT Strands spangram for August 16, 2026?
The spangram is JOBTRAINING.
What are today's Strands theme words?
The theme words are APPRENTICE, DISCIPLE, INTERN, MENTEE, and PROTEGE.
What number is today's Strands puzzle?
The August 16, 2026 puzzle is Strands #896.
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