Answer key | September 25, 2026
The full solution is below, with a short explanation for each group. To avoid spoilers, play the puzzle or open the hints page before reading the answer panels.
HOODIE / VIOLIN / PUPPET / KITE
HOODIE, VIOLIN, PUPPET, and KITE all fit the category "Things with strings". A string is part of the object or how it works. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
PIANO / ALLEGRO / ADAGIO / FORTE
PIANO, ALLEGRO, ADAGIO, and FORTE all fit the category "Musical directions". A score might tell a player these. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
SCENE / PROP / CURTAIN / ENCORE
SCENE, PROP, CURTAIN, and ENCORE all fit the category "Stage terms". A theater audience might notice them. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
EVIDENCE / ALIBI / MOTIVE / SUSPECT
EVIDENCE, ALIBI, MOTIVE, and SUSPECT all fit the category "Mystery story clues". A detective asks about these. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.