Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-12-11
CAKES → TIMES
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects CAKES to TIMES in 4 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
CAKES → TAKES
Change the 1st letter C to T, turning CAKES into TAKES.
Step 2
TAKES → TALES
Change the 3rd letter K to L, turning TAKES into TALES.
Step 3
TALES → TILES
Change the 2nd letter A to I, turning TALES into TILES.
Step 4
TILES → TIMES
Change the 3rd letter L to M, turning TILES into TIMES.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 1, pos 2: 1, pos 3: 2. Most-changed position: 3 (2).
Change sequence: 1, 3, 2, 3.
Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 0, C→V 0, C→C 3.
Word stats: 5 words, 9 unique letters. Start/target share 2 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from CAKES to TIMES?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from CAKES to TIMES takes exactly 4 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
CAKES
TAKES
TALES
TILES
TIMES