Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-04-01
MATS → BEAR
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects MATS to BEAR in 7 steps. This 4-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?
Play This PuzzleStep-by-Step Solution
Step 1
MATS → MASS
Change the 3rd letter T to S, turning MATS into MASS.
Step 2
MASS → PASS
Change the 1st letter M to P, turning MASS into PASS.
Step 3
PASS → PAST
Change the 4th letter S to T, turning PASS into PAST.
Step 4
PAST → PEST
Change the 2nd letter A to E, turning PAST into PEST.
Step 5
PEST → BEST
Change the 1st letter P to B, turning PEST into BEST.
Step 6
BEST → BEAT
Change the 3rd letter S to A, turning BEST into BEAT.
Step 7
BEAT → BEAR
Change the 4th letter T to R, turning BEAT into BEAR.
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, 1, 4, 2, 1, 3, 4.
Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 0, C→V 1, C→C 5.
Word stats: 8 words, 8 unique letters. Start/target share 0 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from MATS to BEAR?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from MATS to BEAR takes exactly 7 steps.
Q: Any tips for today's puzzle?
A: This puzzle involves 4-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
MATS
MASS
PASS
PAST
PEST
BEST
BEAT
BEAR