In this puzzle, solvers often get stuck when trying to identify the heteronyms, particularly with words like "axes" and "bass." The confusion arises because both words can represent multiple meanings, and solvers might not immediately recognize them as heteronyms. For example, "axes" can refer to the plural of "axis" or a tool for chopping, while "bass" can denote both a type of fish and a low-frequency sound. This duality can trip up players who are focused on other associations, leading to misgrouping with the other categories.

Another common area of difficulty is distinguishing the group of words that relate to board games from other potential categories. Words like "pieces" and "cards" are straightforward, but "board" and "dice" can sometimes lead players to consider other contexts where they might be used, such as in gaming or even in non-board game scenarios. This can lead to hesitance in finalizing the group, as solvers might second-guess their choices based on the versatility of the terms.

To successfully navigate this puzzle, solvers should focus on the unique characteristics of each word group. For instance, when identifying the heteronyms, look for words that have distinct meanings that are not immediately related to their spelling or pronunciation, as in the case of "does" (the verb form of 'do' vs. the female deer). For the board game components, recognizing that each word must directly relate to common gameplay mechanics can help solidify that group. It’s also beneficial to approach the "___STICKS" category with a mindset of completing the phrase, as all entries fit naturally into a common expression, which can help eliminate distractions from unrelated terms.

A useful heuristic for future puzzles is to categorize words based on their function or usage context first, rather than their surface meanings. This will help in quickly identifying which words belong together. Additionally, when you encounter words with multiple meanings, take a moment to list out the meanings to see if they fit into any established categories you have already formed. This careful analysis can streamline the grouping process and reduce the likelihood of errors.