Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-04-05
FIRES → CAKES
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects FIRES to CAKES in 5 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
FIRES → TIRES
Change the 1st letter F to T, turning FIRES into TIRES.
Step 2
TIRES → TILES
Change the 3rd letter R to L, turning TIRES into TILES.
Step 3
TILES → TALES
Change the 2nd letter I to A, turning TILES into TALES.
Step 4
TALES → TAKES
Change the 3rd letter L to K, turning TALES into TAKES.
Step 5
TAKES → CAKES
Change the 1st letter T to C, turning TAKES into CAKES.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 2, pos 2: 1, pos 3: 2. Most-changed position: 1, 3 (2).
Change sequence: 1, 3, 2, 3, 1.
Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 0, C→V 0, C→C 4.
Word stats: 6 words, 10 unique letters. Start/target share 2 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from FIRES to CAKES?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from FIRES to CAKES takes exactly 5 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
FIRES
TIRES
TILES
TALES
TAKES
CAKES