In this puzzle, solvers often find themselves stuck when trying to categorize the words that seem similar but belong to different groups. For instance, the terms "MOTHER" and "PRESIDENT" may lead some to think they belong together due to their association with significant figures in society, but they actually belong to different categories—holidays versus not. Similarly, words like "BISHOP" and "CLERGY MEMBER" may confuse players since both relate to religion, but only one is the specific term used in the context of the group associated with famous poets. This confusion can stem from the overlapping meanings and associations of the words, leading to incorrect groupings.

To effectively distinguish the real groups from plausible decoys, players should focus on the defining characteristics of each category. For example, the yellow group is defined by newness or first appearances, while the green group is specifically tied to holidays celebrated in honor of different figures. Looking for common themes or attributes that are unique to each group can help clarify the correct associations. In the case of the purple group, players should consider the context in which "CARDINAL" is used—whether it relates to sports, avian species, or religious titles, as this can help narrow down the choices more effectively.

A useful heuristic for future puzzles is to first identify and isolate the most distinct words. For example, if a word stands out as clearly belonging to a specific category—like "SAINT VALENTINE" being directly associated with a holiday—it can serve as an anchor point for grouping other terms. Another approach is to look for words that have multiple meanings or associations, as these often lead to confusion; clarifying their context can help in accurately categorizing them. By applying these strategies, solvers can improve their ability to navigate through the complexities of word groupings in NYT Connections.