In the NYT Connections puzzle, solvers often find themselves stuck when words can belong to multiple categories or when they are unsure about the specific context of the clues. For instance, the words in the yellow group – BLEW, BROKE, BURST, SPLIT – all relate to breaking or rupturing, which is relatively straightforward. However, some players might confuse these terms with other actions that involve damage or destruction, making it harder to isolate this group. Similarly, the green group – SHADE, SPECTER, SPIRIT, WIGHT – can pose a challenge because while all these words are related to ghostly figures, the term 'WIGHT' might be less familiar to some solvers, leading to potential misgrouping with more common terms like 'SHADE' or 'SPIRIT.'

To distinguish between real groups and plausible decoys, solvers should focus on the specific definitions and contexts of the words. For example, understanding that the blue group relates to forecasting or predicting can help isolate CALL, DIVINE, FORECAST, and READ as they share a common theme in anticipation or interpretation of future events. In contrast, terms that might seem similar but don’t fit the overarching theme, such as those in the purple group, can help clarify the distinctions. Recognizing that "BEST ___ PERFORMANCE" is a specific Grammy category can guide players in correctly identifying AMERICANA, CHORAL, JAZZ, and RAP as the appropriate terms.

One useful heuristic for solvers is to always look for overarching themes or relationships among the words. If a word can fit into multiple categories, it’s essential to evaluate which category has the strongest connection to all its members. Additionally, when faced with unfamiliar terms, players should take a moment to consider their meanings and how they relate to the other words in the group. This approach can help prevent misgrouping and lead to a more efficient solving experience.