Issue #929 Fri 18 Sep
NYT Strands Hints & Answer — September 18, 2026
Today's grid offers a steady climb for those who enjoy methodical progress. Patience will serve you well as you navigate the intersections.
Theme 3 reveals
Today's theme
A thumb pressed against an ink pad, then pushed firmly onto a dotted line. The finality of a heavy pen resting on a desk.
Business and legal negotiations
MUTUAL PROMISES AND FORMAL ARRANGEMENTS
Spangram 4 hints · 13 letters
The connector word
A multi-word imperative phrase
13 letters.
Starts with L, ends with L.
LET'S MAKE A DEAL
Group hint 1 reveal
Show all starting letters
Starting letters
- 1 A (9 letters)
- 2 C (8 letters)
- 3 C (8 letters)
- 4 P (4 letters)
- 5 T (6 letters)
Group hint 1 reveal
Show the first two letters of each
First two letters
- 1 AG (9 letters)
- 2 CO (8 letters)
- 3 CO (8 letters)
- 4 PA (4 letters)
- 5 TR (6 letters)
Theme word 1 of 5 5 hints · 9 letters
A theme word
A shared understanding reached after a long discussion.
9 letters.
Starts with A.
Starts with AG.
AGREEMENT
Theme word 2 of 5 5 hints · 8 letters
A theme word
A legally binding document that requires both parties to sign.
8 letters.
Starts with C.
Starts with CO.
CONTRACT
Theme word 3 of 5 5 hints · 8 letters
A theme word
A solemn promise, often written down, to uphold a specific commitment.
8 letters.
Starts with C.
Starts with CO.
COVENANT
Theme word 4 of 5 5 hints · 4 letters
A theme word
A simple, quiet understanding between two people who trust each other.
4 letters.
Starts with P.
Starts with PA.
PACT
Theme word 5 of 5 5 hints · 6 letters
A theme word
A formal document signed by nations to end hostilities.
6 letters.
Starts with T.
Starts with TR.
TREATY
Spoiler zone
Complete Strands answer
Open only the solution you want to see. Each answer stays hidden until you choose to reveal it.
Reveal the spangram
Reveal all theme words
- AGREEMENT
- CONTRACT
- COVENANT
- PACT
- TREATY
Verified solution for .
Frequently asked questions
Spoiler-free help for Strands on September 18, 2026. Every answer below helps you along without giving the game away — ready to see the full solution? See the complete Strands answer for September 18, 2026, or browse every Strands puzzle in the archive.
How hard is NYT Strands on September 18, 2026?
NYT Strands on September 18, 2026 rates 3 out of 4 — a tougher-than-average puzzle. There are 5 theme words to find, plus the spangram that ties them together.
Where does the September 18, 2026 Strands spangram start?
The spangram is 13 letters long and stretches right across the board. It begins with the letter "L" — the hints above ease you toward the rest one step at a time, without spelling it out.
What is the theme of NYT Strands on September 18, 2026?
We keep the theme under wraps here so nothing is spoiled — but the ladder above walks you into it, starting with the puzzle's overall vibe. Want it stated outright, with the spangram and all 5 words? Open the answer section on this page.
Today
- Difficulty
- Stiff
- At a glance
- 5 theme words · 13-letter spangram
Today on Cluestand
Today
- Difficulty
- Stiff
- At a glance
- 5 theme words · 13-letter spangram