In this puzzle, solvers often encounter difficulty when trying to categorize the words into their respective groups. A common area where players get stuck is with the word 'VOLLEYBALL,' which might lead some to mistakenly associate it with the 'APPLY PRESSURE TO' category due to the physical nature of the sport. However, it actually belongs to the 'THINGS YOU CAN SET' group, as one can set a volleyball match, creating confusion. Another tricky word is 'CRICKET,' which might cause hesitation for those who think of it primarily as a sport and not as an animal known for its jumping ability. This illustrates how players can easily misinterpret the context or dual meanings of words, leading to misgrouping.

To effectively distinguish real groups from plausible decoys, solvers should focus on the defining characteristics of the words in each group. For instance, recognizing that all the words in the 'JUMPING ANIMALS' category are living creatures that are known for their ability to jump is crucial. In contrast, words like 'CRUSH,' 'MASH,' 'PRESS,' and 'SQUASH' in the 'APPLY PRESSURE TO' category all relate to actions that involve applying force. By identifying these specific traits—whether they are actions, characteristics, or functions—players can more easily avoid mixing up categories.

One useful heuristic for solvers is to always consider the primary function or definition of a word before making a final decision on its group. For example, if a word can fit into multiple categories, ask yourself: what is the most direct or common usage of this word? Additionally, when encountering a word that seems ambiguous, it can help to list out the other words in your current group to see if they share a common theme or characteristic that the ambiguous word may or may not fit. This strategy can streamline the grouping process and reduce the chances of error in future puzzles.