Word Guess Strategy: 7 Tips

1. Open with common letters

A first word with five different, common letters (like SLATE, CRANE or TRACE) tells you the most. Avoid repeated letters and rare ones like Q, X, Z and J.

2. Second guess: new letters

If your first guess found little, use a second word made of five new letters (for example, after SLATE try CORNY or ROUND). Two guesses then cover ten letters.

3. Think about positions

A gold letter is in the word but not where you put it. Try it in a different spot next time; that also tells you about its old spot.

4. Common patterns

Many words end in -ER, -LY, -ED, -CH, -SH or -TH, or start with ST, SH, CH, TR or BR. When you know a few letters, try the common patterns first.

5. Don't forget repeats

Words like EERIE, LLAMA or SASSY repeat letters. If nothing else fits, consider a double.

6. Know when to go for it

With two or three possibilities left and guesses to spare, a word that splits them can be better than guessing one at random.

7. Use the hint to learn

The hint shows the guess that narrows the possibilities most. Comparing it with your own choice is a good way to get better.

Last updated 2026-10-19