Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-07-22
CAKES → SALEM
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects CAKES to SALEM in 4 steps. This 5-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?
Play This PuzzleStep-by-Step Solution
Step 1
CAKES → MAKES
Change the 1st letter C to M, turning CAKES into MAKES.
Step 2
MAKES → MALES
Change the 3rd letter K to L, turning MAKES into MALES.
Step 3
MALES → SALES
Change the 1st letter M to S, turning MALES into SALES.
Step 4
SALES → SALEM
Change the 5th letter S to M, turning SALES into SALEM.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 2, pos 3: 1, pos 5: 1. Most-changed position: 1 (2).
Change sequence: 1, 3, 1, 5.
Letter mix: V→V 0, V→C 0, C→V 0, C→C 4.
Word stats: 5 words, 7 unique letters. Start/target share 2 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from CAKES to SALEM?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from CAKES to SALEM takes exactly 4 steps.
Q: Any tips for today's puzzle?
A: This puzzle involves 5-letter words. A good strategy is to look for common intermediate words or focus on changing vowels first.
Q: Where can I play past Word Ladder puzzles?
A: You can access our complete archive by clicking the "Puzzle Archive" link at the bottom of the page.
Word Definitions
CAKES
MAKES
MALES
SALES
SALEM