Erik Kain’s Forbes article breaks down the New York Times’ daily word puzzle game, Strands, focusing on the Friday, October 9, 2026 edition. Strands presents players with a word search twist requiring them to find themed words scattered throughout a grid. Each puzzle features a daily theme—in this case, “That Can’t Be Right”—and includes a special word called the spangram, which spans the grid and reveals a key term connected to the theme.

For the October 9 puzzle, the spangram word is “UNBELIEVABLE,” highlighting the idea of implausibility consistent with the theme. The other words fit expressions of disbelief and nonsense, such as “RUBBISH,” “BALDERDASH,” “NONSENSE,” “DRIVEL,” and “HOOEY.” Each word begins with specific letter pairs given as hints—RU, BA, NO, DR, HO, and UN—helping players identify the correct answers on the board.

The article includes a visual of the completed grid to assist those attempting the puzzle, alongside Kain’s playful commentary appreciating the British-flavored terms tied to incredulity. He signs off by inviting readers to share their experiences with the game on social media and promotes his broader coverage of entertainment and puzzle content on Forbes.

Overall, Kain provides an accessible and entertaining guide for Strands enthusiasts, blending puzzle assistance with cultural flair. His column offers a useful reference for anyone seeking to navigate the NYT’s latest word challenge while highlighting the game’s fresh appeal within the Times’ lineup of brain teasers.