In this NYT Connections puzzle, solvers may often find themselves stuck when trying to categorize words that seem related but ultimately belong to different groups. For instance, the words "CHECK" and "REVIEW" might initially appear to fit well with "SCREEN" and "VET" because they all pertain to evaluating or examining something. However, solvers need to recognize that these words specifically relate to the context of examining applicants, which distinguishes them from other categories. Another potential pitfall could occur with the terms related to airline classes. Words like "BUSINESS," "FIRST," and "PREMIUM" clearly belong together, but some might erroneously attempt to force "COACH" into a different category due to its connotation of being less desirable, thus complicating the grouping process.

To effectively distinguish real groups from plausible decoys, solvers should focus on the underlying themes of the words rather than just surface-level similarities. For example, the words in the YELLOW category all refer to reducing size or amount, which makes them a cohesive group. In contrast, even though "SPECIAL" might seem like it could fit into various contexts, it is specifically tied to notable TV episodes, thereby helping to clarify its categorization. Additionally, players should look for outlier terms that do not share a common theme with others in a group; this can often signal a separate category.

A useful heuristic for players in future puzzles is to first sort words into broad categories based on their definitions or common usages before narrowing down to specific themes. Another effective strategy is to identify words that evoke specific contexts, such as entertainment or services, and use those contexts to guide grouping decisions. By applying these strategies, players can enhance their ability to identify connections and solve puzzles more efficiently.