Today’s NYT Strands Hints, Answer and Help for March 10 #372

#NYT Strands Puzzle Explained: “You’re Pushing My Buttons”

##Introduction
The New York Times Strands puzzle titled “You’re Pushing My Buttons” is centered around the theme of a device used in home entertainment to control functions such as volume and channel. The main clue provided is “The clicker,” which hints at a remote control.

##Understanding the Theme
The spangram for this puzzle is “REMOTECONTROL,” which is discovered by starting at the far-left bottom of the grid, moving right across four rows, then up to an ‘R’ three letters above the bottom. This word weaves through the grid, spelling out “REMOTECONTROL” and integrating all letters effectively.

##Non-Spangram Words
In addition to the spangram, the puzzle includes several other words related to remote control functions: BACK, HOME, MUTE, GUIDE, POWER, VOLUME, and CHANNEL. These words must all be found within the grid, ensuring every letter is used once all words are discovered.

##Using Clue Words for Hints
Players stuck on finding the theme can utilize clue words such as LENT, MOLE, and CANE. Discovering three such words reveals a hidden theme word, aiding in solving the puzzle more efficiently.

##Ensuring All Letters Are Used
Once REMOTECONTROL and the other seven non-spangram words are identified, every letter in the grid should be part of one of these words, confirming the puzzle’s completion.

##Conclusion
With careful grid navigation and an understanding of the remote control theme, players can successfully solve the Strands puzzle. The challenge lies in systematically finding all words while ensuring every letter is accounted for, enhancing both fun and cognitive engagement.