In this particular puzzle, solvers often get stuck when trying to categorize words that may seem to fit into multiple groups. For example, the terms 'GENIE' and 'PRINCESS' from the 'SEEN IN "ALADDIN"' category can confuse players because they might initially think of other fairy tale characters, leading them to consider them in a different context. Similarly, 'SAMURAI' from the 'MOVIES MINUS NUMBERS' category might trip up players who associate it primarily with action or adventure films, failing to connect it back to the specific films referenced in the prompt. This highlights the importance of understanding the specific context of each category rather than relying solely on general associations.

To distinguish between the real groups and plausible decoys, players should look for strong thematic connections within the words. For instance, the 'COSTUMES WITH STRIPED SHIRTS' category is clearly defined by the commonality of wearing striped shirts, making it easier to identify 'MIME', 'PRISONER', 'REFEREE', and 'SAILOR' as the correct group. In contrast, words like 'PARROT' and 'MONKEY' might seem like they could fit into a broader animal category but do not share the same thematic connection as the others in their group. Therefore, players should focus on identifying unique characteristics that distinctly tie words together.

A useful heuristic for future puzzles is to always start by identifying the most straightforward groups first, as they can often provide a solid foundation for the remaining categories. Additionally, when encountering words that could fit into multiple categories, it's essential to consider the context provided by the puzzle. This can help in eliminating decoy options and honing in on the correct connections. By applying these strategies, solvers can enhance their ability to categorize words accurately and efficiently.