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 and hints for you here.

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.

We'll start off with some clues, before building up to the full answer for Strands #487, so read on if you need a little help. The official theme for NYT Strands #487 is... "Beyond vanilla". And here's an unofficial hint from me: "Exotic flavors.