To solve today’s NYT Strands, I decided to take a straightforward guessing approach and interpret the theme of tools literally, similar to what I did with yesterday’s puzzle. I had a hard time finding the Spangram, but my guesses and the hints I was given got me far, even without it.

I would say that the May 5th NYT Strands are an exception in terms of how to approach it. While I normally advise looking for every word to get hints, this time I suggest trying to find one or two words that you think are related to the theme, as you will likely succeed. As you find them, you will notice how the possible solutions start to narrow down, and it will become even clearer once you find the Spangram. Remember that the Spangram is the longest word in the Strands, and the only one that runs left to right or top to bottom. Finding it will give you a new and more specific hint as to what the other words you are looking for are related to.

I decided to start by looking for the names of tools in general, like "wrench" and "hammer," but there was no string of letters that would let me do that. Still, I found the first word that was part of the solution before I filled up the hint bar for the first time, and it showed me that I was on the right track.

I suggest you double down and keep hammering on this theme. If Strands was American football, you'd be a few yards away from touchdown. If you're still struggling and getting nervous, maybe it's time to get outside and touch some grass.