In the NYT Connections puzzle, solvers often get stuck when trying to identify the correct groupings of words that fit specific themes. For example, in the yellow group, words like "MASS," "SEA," and "TON" are all terms that denote a large amount, but solvers might hesitate on "SLEW" because it can also mean a turn or a large quantity in certain contexts. This ambiguity can lead to confusion about whether it truly belongs in that category. Similarly, in the green group, the words "BUCKLE," "CAVE," "COLLAPSE," and "GIVE" all relate to falling under pressure, but players might second-guess "GIVE" as it could feel less direct compared to the more physical actions of the other words, causing them to overlook the correct grouping.

To distinguish real groups from plausible decoys, solvers should look for clear thematic connections among words. For instance, in the blue group, all four words—"SHOUT," "SNAP," "WAVE," and "WHISTLE"—are indeed ways to get attention. Recognizing that these actions share a common goal makes it easier to confirm their grouping. Conversely, words that feel thematically related but don't fit into the same context should be treated with caution. For example, while "DANCE" and "LAUGH" might initially seem to fit with "BELLY" in the purple group, "BUTTON" and "FLOP" do not align with the same playful or physical connotations, helping to solidify the actual group.

One effective heuristic for future puzzles is to focus on the primary meanings of words and how they relate to each other within the context of the groups. When faced with uncertainty, consider whether the words can share a direct action or idea, as this often reveals the correct connections. Additionally, it can be beneficial to temporarily set aside words that feel like they belong together but do not clearly share a common theme, as this can help narrow down your options and lead to more successful groupings.