If you’re someone who enjoys word games that challenge your brain and make you think differently, you’ve probably heard of NYT Connections. This daily word puzzle has become a favorite for many people across the U.S. who love puzzles like Wordle. But unlike Wordle, this game is all about finding connections between words not just guessing them.
Sometimes the game is pretty easy, Other times? Not so much. If you’re stuck trying to figure out today’s puzzle (for Sunday, May 18, 2025), you’re definitely not alone. That’s why we’re here to walk you through the hints and answers so you can keep your win streak going. Let’s break it all down.
What Is the NYT Connections Game, and How Do You Play It?
The New York Times Connections game is a free online word puzzle you can play on your phone, tablet, or computer. The main idea is pretty simple but solving it can be tricky.
Here’s how it works:
-
Every day, the game shows you 16 different words on a 4×4 grid.
-
Your job is to group those 16 words into four groups of four based on what they have in common.
-
These groups are themed, and each has a different level of difficulty:
-
🟨 Yellow – Easy (should be the first one you solve)
-
🟩 Green – Medium (a bit more challenging)
-
🟦 Blue – Hard (you might need to think outside the box)
-
🟪 Purple – Very hard (usually has a twist or hidden meaning)
-
For example, one group might include four types of fruit. Another might be slang terms, sports terms, or words that all sound alike. Sometimes the connections are about meanings, sometimes spelling or pronunciation, and sometimes cultural references.
You only get four guesses per puzzle, so each guess really matters.
Today’s Connections Puzzle – May 18, 2025 (Puzzle #707)
Let’s dive into today’s puzzle, If you haven’t tried it yet and want to avoid spoilers, you might want to stop reading here.
But if you’re ready for some help or just want the answers we’ve got everything you need below, starting with some helpful hints to get your brain working.
Hints for Today’s NYT Connections (May 18)
Here are some clues that match each category in today’s puzzle. These hints won’t give away the full answers right away, but they’ll definitely point you in the right direction.
-
🟨 Yellow Group Hint: These are things students often have to do. Some love them, some hate them.
-
🟩 Green Group Hint: You might hear these words when you’re playing a guessing game and getting close to the right answer.
-
🟦 Blue Group Hint: Words that describe someone who’s open-minded or willing to try anything.
-
🟪 Purple Group Hint: Each word is a different way people use or understand the letter “A.”
Take a moment to think about what words might fit in those categories. If you’ve already tried and still can’t figure them out, keep reading for the full category breakdown and the final answers.
NYT Connections Categories for May 18, 2025
Let’s now look at the official names for today’s groups. Sometimes the category name alone can help you match up the words more easily.
-
🟨 TASKS FOR A STUDENT
-
🟩 ENCOURAGING RESPONSES IN A GUESSING GAME
-
🟦 UP FOR ANYTHING
-
🟪 WHAT “A” MIGHT MEAN
Still stuck? Let’s go ahead and reveal today’s full answers.
Today’s NYT Connections Answers – May 18, 2025
Here’s how the 16 words break down into today’s four categories:
🟨 TASKS FOR A STUDENT
These are all things students often do in school or during study time:
-
Assignment
-
Drill
-
Exercise
-
Lesson
🟩 ENCOURAGING RESPONSES IN A GUESSING GAME
These are common things people say to let you know you’re getting close:
-
Almost
-
Close
-
Not Quite
-
Warm
🟦 UP FOR ANYTHING
These words describe people who are open to new experiences or easygoing:
-
Easy
-
Flexible
-
Game
-
Open
🟪 WHAT “A” MIGHT MEAN
Each of these words could be something the letter “A” stands for:
-
Area
-
Athletic
-
Excellent
-
One
How Hard Was Today’s Puzzle?
According to most players (and honestly, we agree), today’s Connections puzzle was easier than usual. On a scale from 1 to 5, we’d rate it a 2 out of 5 in difficulty.
Starting with the Yellow group made the most sense those words jump out at anyone who’s ever been in school. The Green group was also pretty easy if you’ve ever played a game like “Hot or Cold.” The Blue group required a bit more thinking, but the words had a clear vibe once you spotted it. And finally, the Purple group was sneaky but clever, it took a second to realize they all referred to what “A” can mean in different settings.
Tips and Tricks for Solving NYT Connections
If you’re looking to improve your strategy or are new to the game, here are a few tips that might help you win more often:
1. Start with the obvious
If any group seems to pop out right away, go for that one first. It helps build momentum and narrows down your choices for the rest.
2. Think broadly about “connections”
The links between words aren’t always about definitions. Sometimes they’re about how the words are used, how they sound, or even cultural meanings.
3. Use the Shuffle Button
Don’t forget to use the shuffle feature. Rearranging the grid often helps your brain spot new patterns or combos you missed before.
4. Don’t waste guesses
You only get four guesses per puzzle. Make sure you’re really confident in a group before submitting it. If you’re unsure about one word, hold off until you’re more certain.
5. Practice makes perfect
Like most puzzles, the more you play, the better you’ll get. You’ll begin to recognize certain patterns, common tricks, and how the puzzle creators think.
Did You Solve It Today?
Whether you solved today’s NYT Connections puzzle in one try or needed a little help, we hope this guide made things easier. It’s always fun to challenge your brain, and these daily puzzles are a great way to do that.
Let us know how you did in the comments below. Were you stumped by the Purple group? Or did everything click right away?
And don’t forget, a brand-new puzzle arrives every day at midnight. So come back tomorrow, and we’ll be here again with more hints and answers if you need them.
Happy puzzling!
Would you like this style of puzzle guide daily? Or want to receive tips like these for other games too (like Wordle or Strands)? Let me know!
