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Date: 2026-03-07
RATES → SORTS

Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects RATES to SORTS in 7 steps. This 5-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?

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Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1 RATES → RACES
Change the 3rd letter T to C, turning RATES into RACES.
Step 2 RACES → RACKS
Change the 4th letter E to K, turning RACES into RACKS.
Step 3 RACKS → PACKS
Change the 1st letter R to P, turning RACKS into PACKS.
Step 4 PACKS → PARKS
Change the 3rd letter C to R, turning PACKS into PARKS.
Step 5 PARKS → PARTS
Change the 4th letter K to T, turning PARKS into PARTS.
Step 6 PARTS → PORTS
Change the 2nd letter A to O, turning PARTS into PORTS.
Step 7 PORTS → SORTS
Change the 1st letter P to S, turning PORTS into SORTS.

Puzzle Insights

Change positions: pos 1: 2, pos 2: 1, pos 3: 2, pos 4: 2. Most-changed position: 1, 3, 4 (2).

Change sequence: 3, 4, 1, 3, 4, 2, 1.

Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 1, C→V 0, C→C 5.

Word stats: 8 words, 9 unique letters. Start/target share 1 position.

FAQ

Q: What is the shortest path from RATES to SORTS?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from RATES to SORTS takes exactly 7 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