The New York Times launched its daily word puzzle Connections in June 2023. Within months, it became a staple for millions of players. Forbes quickly stepped in with a dedicated hints column, written primarily by journalist Kris Holt, offering category clues without spoiling the answers. These articles have become a go-to resource for players seeking a nudge rather than a full solution.
How Forbes Connections Hints Differ from Other Puzzle Guides
Many websites publish Connections answers, but Forbes takes a distinct approach. Instead of listing the four categories outright, Holt provides subtle clues that guide the player toward the theme. For example, a hint might say “Think about words that can precede ‘board'” rather than revealing the category “Surfing Terms.” This method preserves the puzzle’s challenge while reducing frustration. Public records covering this story are gathered in NYT Connections Hints And Answers: Thursday, July 2 – Forbes
Other outlets like The New York Times’ own WordleBot or fan sites often give direct answers. Forbes, by contrast, aims to teach solving strategies. The hints are structured in a way that encourages logical grouping. Players learn to look for overlapping meanings, homophones, or cultural references. This educational angle sets Forbes apart from simple answer lists.
Another difference is the tone. Holt writes in a conversational style, often acknowledging the puzzle’s difficulty. He might note that a particular set of words is tricky or that the categories are unusually obscure. This human touch resonates with readers who appreciate empathy over dry instruction.
Forbes also includes a separate section for the full answer, clearly marked with a spoiler warning. This allows readers to choose how much help they want. The combination of hints plus optional answers makes the column flexible for different skill levels.
In 2024, Forbes expanded its puzzle coverage to include hints for Strands and Spelling Bee. This broader strategy positions the site as a comprehensive puzzle companion, not just a Connections answer key. The consistency of daily publication, often by morning, ensures readers can check before attempting the puzzle themselves.
The Methodology Behind Writing a Daily Hints Column
Producing a daily hints column requires a systematic process. Kris Holt, the primary author, typically plays the puzzle himself first. He notes which categories are straightforward and which require lateral thinking. Then he crafts clues that are neither too vague nor too revealing.
The challenge lies in balancing difficulty. A hint that is too obvious defeats the purpose; one that is too cryptic frustrates readers. Holt often tests his clues on colleagues or social media followers to gauge their effectiveness. He also monitors reader feedback in the comments section, adjusting future hints based on common complaints.
Time pressure is another factor. The puzzle resets at midnight Eastern Time, and Forbes aims to publish its hints early in the day. This means Holt must work quickly, sometimes solving and writing within an hour. Despite the pace, the column maintains a consistent quality and tone.
Forbes also employs an editor who reviews each hint for clarity and accuracy. The editor ensures that no accidental spoilers slip through, such as a clue that inadvertently reveals a category name. This quality control is crucial because readers rely on the hints being correct and helpful.
The column’s structure is standardized: an introductory paragraph, a spoiler warning, then a list of hints for each category, followed by the answers. This format allows regular readers to navigate quickly. Over time, Holt has developed a personal style that includes occasional humor and references to pop culture, making the column enjoyable even for those who have already solved the puzzle.
The Origins of NYT Connections and Forbes’ Role in Its Popularity
Connections was inspired by a segment from the British quiz show “Only Connect,” which has aired since 2008. The New York Times adapted the concept into a digital game, launching it on June 12, 2023. Initially, it was available only on the NYT Games app and website. The game quickly gained traction, partly because it filled a gap left by Wordle’s declining novelty.
Forbes recognized the trend early. In July 2023, the publication began running daily hints, initially as a trial. The positive reader response led to a permanent column. Kris Holt, who had previously covered tech and gaming for Forbes, was assigned to write it. His background in explaining complex topics made him a natural fit.
The timing was strategic. Wordle had peaked in early 2022, and puzzle enthusiasts were seeking new challenges. Connections offered a different kind of mental exercise: grouping words rather than guessing letters. Forbes’ hints helped lower the barrier for new players who might otherwise give up after a few failed attempts.
By late 2023, Connections had become a daily habit for millions. Forbes’ hints column was cited in social media posts and online forums as a trusted resource. The column’s success also demonstrated that traditional business publications could attract casual gaming audiences. Forbes’ broader strategy of covering lifestyle topics, including puzzles, paid off in increased web traffic and reader engagement.
The relationship between NYT and Forbes is symbiotic. The Times benefits from the free publicity, while Forbes gains loyal readers who return daily for hints. This dynamic has continued into 2025, with Connections remaining a top puzzle and Forbes as a key hint source.
Real-World Impact: How Forbes Hints Shape the Puzzle Community
Forbes’ Connections hints have influenced how players approach the game. Many readers report that the hints have improved their solving skills over time. By learning to recognize common category types—such as “___ and ___” phrases, homophones, or words that can be preceded by the same word—players become more self-sufficient.
The column also fosters a sense of community. Readers often share their own strategies in the comments, creating a collaborative learning environment. Some have formed informal groups that discuss the hints before attempting the puzzle. This social aspect extends beyond the article itself, with discussions spilling onto Twitter and Reddit.
Forbes has also used the column to experiment with interactive features. Occasionally, Holt includes polls asking readers which category they found hardest. The results are shared in subsequent columns, giving readers a voice. This engagement boosts loyalty and keeps the column fresh.
The impact is measurable in terms of web traffic. Forbes does not publicly disclose page views, but the column consistently ranks high in search results for “Connections hint.” The series has also spawned related content, such as strategy guides and interviews with puzzle creators. In 2024, Forbes hosted a live Q&A with Holt, drawing thousands of participants.
Critics argue that hints diminish the puzzle’s challenge. However, Holt and Forbes maintain that the goal is to help players who might otherwise quit. The column includes a clear spoiler warning, and many readers use the hints only as a last resort. Ultimately, the column has made Connections more accessible without ruining the experience for purists.
| Aspect | Forbes Hints | Typical Answer Sites |
|---|---|---|
| Content | Category clues, not direct answers | Full answer lists |
| Tone | Conversational, empathetic | Neutral, instructional |
| Frequency | Daily, morning publication | Varies, often after puzzle release |
| Spoiler Policy | Clear warnings, separate answer section | Often no warning |
| Author | Kris Holt (primary) | Anonymous or multiple |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that Forbes Connections hints sometimes contain errors or mislead players?
While rare, errors can occur. Kris Holt and the editorial team strive for accuracy, but the fast daily turnaround means occasional mistakes. Readers often flag issues in comments, and corrections are made promptly. The column is generally reliable, but players should use hints as guidance, not gospel.
When did Forbes start publishing its Connections hints column?
Forbes began running daily Connections hints in July 2023, shortly after the puzzle’s June 2023 launch. The column was introduced as a trial and became permanent due to strong reader demand. Kris Holt has been the primary writer since the beginning.
What is the Forbes Connections hint column best known for among puzzle enthusiasts?
It is best known for providing category clues that preserve the puzzle’s challenge while offering a helpful nudge. The column’s conversational tone and spoiler-friendly structure have made it a trusted resource. Many players appreciate that it teaches solving strategies rather than just giving answers.
Where can readers find the Forbes Connections hints online?
The hints are published on Forbes’ website under the “Games & Puzzles” section. They are free to read with no paywall. Readers can also access them via search engines by searching for “Connections hint Forbes” or directly through Kris Holt’s author page on Forbes.
Is the Forbes Connections hint column still being published daily in 2025?
Yes, as of 2025, the column continues to be published daily. It remains a popular feature on Forbes, alongside hints for other NYT puzzles like Strands and Spelling Bee. The consistency and quality have kept readers returning, and there are no signs of the column ending.
How the Forbes Connections Hint Column Has Evolved Over Time
Since its debut in July 2023, the Forbes Connections hint column has undergone several refinements. Initially, the hints were brief and focused solely on category themes. Over time, Kris Holt began adding more context, such as explaining why certain words fit together or noting common pitfalls. This evolution came from reader feedback, which often requested more detailed guidance without crossing into spoiler territory.
The column also expanded its format. Early versions listed hints in a simple numbered list. Later, Holt introduced a “Difficulty Rating” for each puzzle, giving readers a sense of how challenging the day’s game might be. This addition was well received, as it helped players decide whether to attempt the puzzle independently or seek hints early.
Another change was the inclusion of “Alternative Hints” for particularly tough categories. If the primary hint proved too cryptic, Holt would offer a second, more direct clue. This flexibility acknowledged that different players have different tolerance for ambiguity. The column also began linking to related articles, such as strategy guides or interviews with puzzle creators, though these links are not included here.
In 2024, Forbes introduced a weekly recap column that analyzed the week’s puzzles. This recap highlighted common themes, tricky words, and patterns that recur across puzzles. It served as a learning tool for dedicated players. The recap also included reader-submitted strategies, further building community engagement.
The column’s visual presentation improved as well. Early versions were text-heavy, but later iterations used bold text for category hints and color-coded sections for each group. These design changes made the hints easier to scan, especially for mobile users. Forbes also optimized the page for faster loading, recognizing that many readers check hints on their phones during commutes.
Despite these changes, the core philosophy remains unchanged: provide enough help to keep players engaged without removing the satisfaction of solving. Holt has stated in interviews that he views his role as a coach, not a cheat sheet. This consistent approach has built trust with the audience, making the column a daily habit for many.
Reader Feedback and Its Influence on the Column’s Direction
Reader feedback has played a significant role in shaping the Forbes Connections hint column. The comments section under each article is often filled with suggestions, complaints, and praise. Holt and the editorial team monitor these comments closely, using them to adjust future hints.
One common request was for hints to be published earlier in the day. Initially, the column appeared around 10 a.m. Eastern Time. After numerous comments asking for earlier access, Forbes moved the publication time to 6 a.m. Eastern. This change was widely appreciated, especially by players who like to solve the puzzle first thing in the morning.
Another piece of feedback concerned the difficulty of hints. Some readers found the clues too vague, while others thought they gave away too much. Holt responded by introducing a tiered hint system: a subtle clue first, followed by a more direct one if needed. This compromise satisfied both camps. He also began including a note at the top of the column indicating the overall difficulty of the day’s puzzle, based on his own solving experience.
Negative feedback has also led to corrections. On rare occasions, a hint was factually incorrect or misleading. Readers were quick to point out errors, and Holt would issue a correction in the same column or the next day’s edition. This responsiveness has built credibility. Readers know that their voices are heard, and the column improves as a result.
Positive feedback often highlights the column’s educational value. Many readers have written that they learned new words or improved their puzzle-solving skills by reading the hints. Some have even shared that they now create their own puzzles, inspired by the strategies they learned. This kind of impact motivates Holt to maintain high standards.
Forbes has also used surveys to gather structured feedback. In 2024, the site ran a poll asking readers what additional features they would like to see. The top requests were video hints and a mobile app. While neither has been implemented as of early 2025, the poll demonstrated that Forbes values reader input. The column’s evolution is a direct result of this ongoing dialogue.
Comparing Forbes Connections Hints to Other Media Outlets’ Coverage
Several other media outlets have launched their own Connections hint columns, but Forbes remains the most prominent. The New York Times itself offers a daily “Connections Companion” newsletter, but it focuses more on the puzzle’s creation story than on solving help. The Times also has a WordleBot for Wordle, but no equivalent for Connections.
Other outlets like The Guardian, Mashable, and CNET have experimented with hints, but none have matched Forbes’ consistency. The Guardian’s hints are published sporadically, often only for particularly hard puzzles. Mashable’s column ran for a few months in 2023 but was discontinued. CNET’s hints are written by multiple authors, leading to inconsistent tone and quality.
Independent blogs and social media accounts also offer hints, but they lack the editorial oversight of a major publication. Some are run by individuals who may not have the same level of puzzle expertise. Forbes’ advantage lies in its professional editorial process, which includes fact-checking and style guidelines. This reliability is why many players turn to Forbes first.
Forbes also benefits from its brand recognition. Readers trust the Forbes name, even for puzzle content. The site’s high domain authority means its hints rank well in search results, drawing in new readers. This visibility creates a virtuous cycle: more readers lead to more feedback, which improves the column, which attracts even more readers.
In terms of depth, Forbes’ hints are more detailed than most competitors. While other outlets might give a single sentence per category, Holt often provides multiple clues and explanations. He also includes tips for future puzzles, such as noting that certain words are frequently used in Connections. This added value keeps readers coming back.
The competitive landscape may shift as more outlets recognize the demand for puzzle hints. However, Forbes’ head start and established audience give it a strong position. As long as the column maintains its quality and responsiveness, it is likely to remain the top choice for Connections players seeking a helpful nudge.