Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-01-21
HANDS → KINGS
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects HANDS to KINGS in 6 steps. This 5-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?
Play This PuzzleStep-by-Step Solution
Step 1
HANDS → LANDS
Change the 1st letter H to L, turning HANDS into LANDS.
Step 2
LANDS → LANES
Change the 4th letter D to E, turning LANDS into LANES.
Step 3
LANES → LINES
Change the 2nd letter A to I, turning LANES into LINES.
Step 4
LINES → WINES
Change the 1st letter L to W, turning LINES into WINES.
Step 5
WINES → WINGS
Change the 4th letter E to G, turning WINES into WINGS.
Step 6
WINGS → KINGS
Change the 1st letter W to K, turning WINGS into KINGS.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 3, pos 2: 1, pos 4: 2. Most-changed position: 1 (3).
Change sequence: 1, 4, 2, 1, 4, 1.
Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 1, C→V 1, C→C 3.
Word stats: 7 words, 11 unique letters. Start/target share 2 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from HANDS to KINGS?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from HANDS to KINGS takes exactly 6 steps.
Q: Any tips for today's puzzle?
A: This puzzle involves 5-letter words. A good strategy is to look for common intermediate words or focus on changing vowels first.
Q: Where can I play past Word Ladder puzzles?
A: You can access our complete archive by clicking the "Puzzle Archive" link at the bottom of the page.
Word Definitions
HANDS
LANDS
LANES
LINES
WINES
WINGS
KINGS