In the NYT Connections puzzle, solvers often find themselves stuck when they misidentify the categories, particularly when the words share a common theme but belong to different groups. For example, someone might confuse 'HOMEWORK' and 'PAPERS' as part of a different category rather than recognizing they fit under components of a grade. Similarly, 'STOPS' could easily be mistaken for a different context outside of map app options, leading to incorrect groupings. These misinterpretations can derail the solving process and cause frustration as players struggle to find the correct associations.

To distinguish the real groups from plausible decoys, solvers should focus on the specific relationships and contexts of the words. For instance, recognizing that all words in the yellow group are directly related to academic grading can help solidify that category. In contrast, words like 'BALL' and 'BLOCKS' are more closely associated with toys rather than any academic context. Additionally, players should look for more subtle nuances; for example, 'FOILS' and 'MASKS' are specific to fencing gear and not just general sports equipment, which can help clarify their classification. Understanding these distinctions can streamline the grouping process.

One useful heuristic for future puzzles is to consider the function or purpose of each word. For instance, when faced with a set of words, ask yourself what each item is fundamentally used for—this can quickly help in identifying categories. Another strategy is to look for thematic connections that are not immediately apparent; sometimes, words that seem disparate at first glance can share a common thread in context, like the academic context of grading. By applying these strategies consistently, solvers can enhance their efficiency in identifying correct groupings.