The New York Times Connections has rapidly evolved into a global obsession for enthusiasts of word games, captivating minds with its unique blend of simplicity and complexity. By combining the addictive nature of games like Wordle with the intricate demands of logic and pattern recognition puzzles, Connections presents a daily challenge that pushes players to uncover subtle links between seemingly random words.
What Makes NYT Connections So Addictive?
Every single day, the game features a grid of 16 words arranged in a 4x4 format. The primary objective is to group these words into four distinct sets, each based on hidden thematic connections. Today's puzzle, numbered 955 and dated January 22, 2026, offers an ideal equilibrium between challenge and enjoyment, rigorously testing players' knowledge and mental agility.
Connections has garnered a massive worldwide following due to its clever gameplay mechanics, which actively engage analytical and lateral thinking skills. It serves as a daily intellectual exercise, encouraging players to sharpen their cognitive abilities while having fun. Unlike conventional word association games, Connections demands keen observation and strategic planning to achieve victory.
Accessibility and Popularity
The game is easily accessible via both desktop computers and mobile devices, and it remains free to play, factors that significantly contribute to its immense popularity. Many players have incorporated Connections into their daily routines, deriving pleasure and a sense of accomplishment from successfully completing each puzzle.
NYT Connections: Hints for Today's Puzzle (January 22, 2026)
To assist players without giving away the solutions, here are strategic hints for the current puzzle:
- YELLOW: Photographic terms
- GREEN: Apple puddings
- BLUE: Clumsy accident
- PURPLE: Add to famous periodicals
These clues are designed to guide players toward recognizing patterns, fostering logical deduction and strategic grouping while preserving the inherent challenge of the game.
NYT Connections Categories for January 22, 2026
Below are the connection categories available in today's NYT Connections puzzle:
- YELLOW: WELL-DEFINED, AS AN IMAGE
- GREEN: FRUIT DESSERTS
- BLUE: BUNGLE
- PURPLE: MAGAZINES PLUS A LETTER
NYT Connections Answers for January 22, 2026
Here are the four correct groups for today's puzzle:
- YELLOW: WELL-DEFINED, AS AN IMAGE – CLEAR, CRISP, DISTINCT, SHARP
- GREEN: FRUIT DESSERTS – COBBLER, CRUMBLE, STRUDEL, TURNOVER
- BLUE: BUNGLE – FLUFF, FUMBLE, MISS, TRIP
- PURPLE: MAGAZINES PLUS A LETTER – ELLEN, SPINY, TIMER, USE
Tips to Master NYT Connections
To enhance your gameplay and increase your chances of success, consider these effective strategies:
- Look for word patterns: Examine words for common prefixes, suffixes, or categories such as colors, objects, or actions.
- Group obvious links first: Start by eliminating clear groups to simplify the remaining connections.
- Think laterally: Some connections are clever or idiomatic, so explore alternate meanings and interpretations.
- Use process of elimination: If a word doesn't fit into one category, reassess its placement in another group.
- Observe the hints: Utilize the provided hints to guide your grouping efforts without spoiling the solution entirely.
By consistently applying these techniques, you can transform your daily Connections experience into a more rewarding and intellectually stimulating activity.
