In the February 19, 2024 NYT Connections puzzle, solvers often get stuck when trying to categorize words that have multiple meanings or uses. For instance, the word "BLOW" could refer to messing something up, as in making a mistake, but it can also imply a physical action that might not fit neatly into any of the categories. Similarly, the word "FLUFF" could denote both a mistake in a task and a physical action of making something soft, which might confuse solvers about its correct grouping. These ambiguities can lead to second-guessing and misclassifications, especially when players are in a hurry to make connections.

To distinguish real groups from plausible decoys, players should look for clear thematic connections among the words. For example, in the yellow group, all terms are directly related to fire-building and can be easily visualized together. In contrast, words like "DRILL" or "GRINDER" in the blue category clearly align with workshop tools, while "FRAME," "HANDLE," "HINGE," and "LOCK" all pertain to the physical structure of a door. Focusing on the primary function or common use of each word can help clarify their correct groupings and minimize confusion.

One effective heuristic for players is to categorize words by their primary functions first, rather than trying to match them based solely on superficial similarities. For instance, thinking about what each word does in a practical sense (like how "LOG" is essential for burning versus how "HINGE" functions to allow a door to swing) can provide clarity. Additionally, players should consider the context in which these words are most commonly used; this can often reveal the correct associations. Keeping these strategies in mind will not only help in this puzzle but also serve well in future puzzles where words may have overlapping meanings.