Need a nudge before the answers? The February 9, 2026, NYT Connections puzzle is #974. Start with the progressive hints below, then open the spoiler section for the four groups and their words.
Hints for Connections #974
Connections asks players to sort 16 words into four groups of four. These clues move from broad to specific; each one-word prompt points toward a word in its group.
- Yellow: Think of tools or materials used in weaving. One-word hint: scissors.
- Green: Think of a system or way of doing something. One-word hint: manner.
- Blue: Think of ways an author might be paid. One-word hint: bonus.
- Purple: Complete the phrase “Draw ___.” One-word hint: poker.
Answers for Monday, February 9
Spoilers: Yahoo Tech’s dated guide identifies the puzzle as #974 and gives these four groups and answers:
- Used in weaving: loom, needle, scissors, yarn
- Method: approach, manner, style, way
- Kinds of payment for an author: advance, bonus, fee, royalty
- Draw ___: near, poker, straws, the line
The category labels and word sets are attributed to Yahoo Tech’s February 9 guide; they are not presented here as independently confirmed by a New York Times answer page.
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How to use the clues
- Begin with a group that has a clear shared trait, such as words that complete a familiar phrase.
- If the game says “one away,” treat it as feedback that your selection is close and reconsider which word may not belong.
- Shuffle the board if the arrangement is making it hard to see different possible groupings.
Yahoo Tech’s author reported solving the groups in yellow, green, blue, then purple order. That is the author’s account of this solve, not a verified difficulty ranking.
Quick Recap
Rank #2
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