Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-08-20
WALES → MODES
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects WALES to MODES in 6 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
WALES → WAVES
Change the 3rd letter L to V, turning WALES into WAVES.
Step 2
WAVES → WIVES
Change the 2nd letter A to I, turning WAVES into WIVES.
Step 3
WIVES → LIVES
Change the 1st letter W to L, turning WIVES into LIVES.
Step 4
LIVES → LOVES
Change the 2nd letter I to O, turning LIVES into LOVES.
Step 5
LOVES → MOVES
Change the 1st letter L to M, turning LOVES into MOVES.
Step 6
MOVES → MODES
Change the 3rd letter V to D, turning MOVES into MODES.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 2, pos 2: 2, pos 3: 2. Most-changed position: 1, 2, 3 (2).
Change sequence: 3, 2, 1, 2, 1, 3.
Letter mix: V→V 2, V→C 0, C→V 0, C→C 4.
Word stats: 7 words, 10 unique letters. Start/target share 2 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from WALES to MODES?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from WALES to MODES takes exactly 6 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
WALES
WAVES
WIVES
LIVES
LOVES
MOVES
MODES