The New York Times' Strands puzzle for September 18, 2025, provides players with hints, answers, and a theme centered around learning to play an instrument. The puzzle features a six-by-eight letter grid where players find linked words related to music and piano practice, such as 'Scale,' 'Tune,' 'Theory,' 'Recital,' 'Piano Lessons,' 'Chord,' and 'Technique.' The theme phrase, or spangram, is 'Piano Lessons,' which spans vertically across the grid. The hints for the puzzle include the theme 'Practice makes perfect,' emphasizing musical education. The game challenges players to identify words connected to musical training, with the overall theme highlighting the importance of practice in mastering an instrument. The puzzle is part of a daily series, with previous solutions available for reference, and is designed to stimulate brain activity with a focus on musical terminology and learning.