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.

The New York Times crossword puzzle can be tough! If you're stuck, we're here to help with a list of today's clues and answers.

Friday's "Connections" is rated 3 out of 5 for difficulty, and Newsweek is here to help you if you're struggling.

Looking for the most recent Connections answers? Click here for today's Connections hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle and Strands puzzles. Need the answers for the New York Times Connections puzzle?

Strands is a tricky take on the classic word search from NYT Games. If you're stuck and cannot solve today's puzzle, we've got help for you here.

But the puzzle for Nov. 14 had one answer that completely threw me, and maybe you too. Spoilers, here come the