In this puzzle, solvers often get stuck when trying to categorize words that have multiple meanings or are used in different contexts. For instance, the words "CELL" and "DIGITS" might initially seem ambiguous, as they can refer to various concepts outside the specified theme of phone information requests. Players might mistakenly group these words with unrelated terms if they don’t focus on the specific context of asking for phone numbers, which can lead to confusion. Similarly, the word "TILES" in the purple category might cause hesitation because it can refer to both Scrabble and other types of board games, creating doubt about its correct grouping.

To distinguish the real groups from plausible decoys, solvers should look for strong thematic connections among the words in each category. The yellow group is clearly defined by terms related to high points, while the green group specifically relates to phone inquiries. A good strategy is to identify keywords or phrases that fit neatly into a category without overlap. For example, recognizing that "BAG," "BOARD," "RACKS," and "TILES" are all components of a Scrabble game can help solidify the purple grouping, whereas terms like "BABY" and "POCKET" will easily align with the concept of size modification in the blue category.

One useful heuristic for future puzzles is to focus on the context or common usage of words, as this can often clarify their category placement. Additionally, when faced with a list of words, consider eliminating options that don’t fit the overarching theme of the group. This process of elimination can help refine choices and lead to quicker solutions. By honing in on specific themes and using elimination strategies, solvers can navigate future puzzles with greater confidence and efficiency.