The NYT Strands puzzle for November 13, 2026, is No. 985. This edition leans into the cultural significance of the date—Friday the 13th—with a theme that highlights common superstitions. Below, you will find a series of clues ranging from general guidance to specific word hints, followed by the complete solution for the day.
Hints for today’s Strands puzzle
The theme for today is “Not a good sign.” While this sounds like a general warning, the clues in the grid are very specific to Western folklore and things you might want to avoid if you are particularly superstitious.
- Broad hint: Today’s grid is built around bad omens and the consequences of minor accidents.
- Thematic categories: The six theme words are organized into three distinct pairs, each representing a different traditional superstition.
- Spangram nudge: If you are having a streak of bad fortune, you might say you are suffering from this two-word phrase that starts with “R” and ends with “K.”
To help narrow it down, focus on things you might do in a dining room, what you might see in a dressing room, or what button you might notice is missing in an elevator.
Spoiler warning: Strands answers for November 13
If you are not ready to see the full solution for No. 985, do not scroll any further. The verified spangram and theme words are listed below.
The spangram for today is ROTTENLUCK. It begins on the fourth row of the far-left column and travels across the grid to end on the eighth row of the far-right column.
The six verified theme words are:
- SALT
- SPILLED
- MIRROR
- BROKEN
- FLOOR
- THIRTEENTH
These words represent three well-known superstitions traditionally associated with bad luck: spilling salt, breaking a mirror, and the absence or avoidance of the 13th floor in buildings. Because November 13, 2026, falls on a Friday, the puzzle specifically focuses on these cultural omens of misfortune.
