In the NYT Connections puzzle, solvers often find themselves stuck when trying to categorize groups that have overlapping characteristics or when they encounter words with multiple meanings. For instance, players might confuse 'BOOT' from the blue group with a potential item that could also fit in a different context, such as a 'BONE' from the yellow group. Similarly, 'SCORE' might mislead players into thinking it relates to a sporting term rather than its usage in the context of a large quantity, which is crucial for identifying it as part of the green group. These kinds of ambiguities can lead to incorrect guesses and wasted time as players attempt to force words into the wrong categories.

To effectively distinguish the real groups from plausible decoys, players should focus on the primary context of each word. For example, 'DROVE' is unmistakably linked to the concept of a large number, while 'STICK' is clearly associated with items a dog might fetch. By keeping the definitions in mind and examining the relationships between words, players can more accurately sort them into their respective categories. It's also helpful to look for unique characteristics or themes that can help eliminate confusion, such as focusing on the intended use of an item or the historical relevance of an inventor.

One useful heuristic for future puzzles is to prioritize categorization based on clear, distinct themes. If you encounter a word that can fit into multiple categories, ask yourself which context is the most relevant based on the other words present. Additionally, if a group feels incomplete, take a step back and reassess the definitions of the words you have and how they relate to each other. This strategy will not only help in identifying the correct groups but also in quickly eliminating decoys that don't fit the established patterns.