Word Steps
Transform one four-letter word into another by changing exactly one letter at a time. Every step has to be a real word.
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What is Word Steps?
Word Steps is Clue Morning’s daily word ladder puzzle. You begin with one four-letter word and a target four-letter word. The goal is to build a chain between them by changing exactly one letter on each move.
Every intermediate step has to be a recognized word, so you cannot jump directly to a convenient arrangement of letters. You have to find a real path through the language.
How to play Word Steps
- Start with the word shown at the top of the ladder.
- Change exactly one letter to make another valid four-letter word.
- Repeat, changing only one letter on each step.
- Reach the target word within eight moves.
- Use Undo if a path leads you into a dead end.
COLD → CORD → CARD → WARD → WARM
Each step changes exactly one letter, and every intermediate form is a valid word. That is the basic logic behind every Word Steps puzzle.
Word Steps strategy
Compare the start and target words first. If they already share two or three letters, identify which positions need to change and look for real words that move those positions closer to the target.
If the obvious path stalls, change a letter that is already “correct” temporarily. Word ladders often require a detour because the shortest-looking route does not pass through valid intermediate words.
Fewer moves, stronger score
Solving the ladder earns points, and more efficient paths score better. The eight-move limit keeps the puzzle compact while still leaving room for detours, experimentation, and recovery.
A new word ladder every morning
Word Steps is part of Clue Morning’s seven free daily games. Every player gets the same start and target words for the day, making it easy to compare paths and see who found the cleaner route.
Word Steps FAQ
What is a word ladder?
A word ladder changes one word into another one letter at a time, with every step forming a valid word.
Can I change two letters at once?
No. Exactly one letter must change on each move.
Can I undo a move?
Yes. Word Steps lets you undo if a branch of the ladder is not working.
How many moves do I get?
The daily puzzle allows up to eight moves to reach the target.