If you need a little assistance getting through the New York Times Strands puzzle, you are not alone. Word puzzle enthusiasts tackling game No. 969 on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, can find all the hints, the spangram, and the full list of answers right here to help wrap up the board.
Strands challenges players to uncover hidden themed words on a grid, along with a special spangram that stretches completely across the board. Every single letter on the board is ultimately used by the time the puzzle is complete.
Today's Theme and Hints
The official theme for puzzle No. 969 is "Comedy club." If that broad category leaves you wondering where to start, consider the classic comedy hint: "Who’s on first?"
Players who find themselves stuck can build up hint progress by uncovering any valid words of four letters or more. For every three filler words discovered, the game automatically reveals one of the official theme answers.
The Spangram: FUNNYBUSINESS
Today's central spangram is FUNNYBUSINESS. To track it down on the grid, you begin with the letter F located five spaces to the left on the bottom row, and then wind your way up through the board.
All Answers for Puzzle No. 969
While the theme and initial clues make the puzzle look straightforward, certain terms can still catch players off guard. For instance, while "sketch" easily connects to comedy, terms like "burlesque" might trip up solvers who only associate the word with striptease rather than its historical roots in comedic, theatrical performances.
The complete set of theme answers rounding out the board includes:
- SKETCH
- BURLESQUE
- FUNNYBUSINESS (Spangram)
With the spangram and all themed elements placed, every letter tile on the grid finds its home, completing Wednesday's challenge successfully.
