Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-10-08
FAILS → LAKES
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects FAILS to LAKES 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
FAILS → FALLS
Change the 3rd letter I to L, turning FAILS into FALLS.
Step 2
FALLS → WALLS
Change the 1st letter F to W, turning FALLS into WALLS.
Step 3
WALLS → WALES
Change the 4th letter L to E, turning WALLS into WALES.
Step 4
WALES → MALES
Change the 1st letter W to M, turning WALES into MALES.
Step 5
MALES → MAKES
Change the 3rd letter L to K, turning MALES into MAKES.
Step 6
MAKES → LAKES
Change the 1st letter M to L, turning MAKES into LAKES.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 3, pos 3: 2, pos 4: 1. Most-changed position: 1 (3).
Change sequence: 3, 1, 4, 1, 3, 1.
Letter mix: V→V 0, V→C 1, C→V 1, C→C 4.
Word stats: 7 words, 9 unique letters. Start/target share 2 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from FAILS to LAKES?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from FAILS to LAKES 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
FAILS
FALLS
WALLS
WALES
MALES
MAKES
LAKES