Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-12-20
TAPE → PADS
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects TAPE to PADS in 6 steps. This 4-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?
Play This PuzzleStep-by-Step Solution
Step 1
TAPE → CAPE
Change the 1st letter T to C, turning TAPE into CAPE.
Step 2
CAPE → CASE
Change the 3rd letter P to S, turning CAPE into CASE.
Step 3
CASE → BASE
Change the 1st letter C to B, turning CASE into BASE.
Step 4
BASE → BASS
Change the 4th letter E to S, turning BASE into BASS.
Step 5
BASS → PASS
Change the 1st letter B to P, turning BASS into PASS.
Step 6
PASS → PADS
Change the 3rd letter S to D, turning PASS into PADS.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 3, pos 3: 2, pos 4: 1. Most-changed position: 1 (3).
Change sequence: 1, 3, 1, 4, 1, 3.
Letter mix: V→V 0, V→C 1, C→V 0, C→C 5.
Word stats: 7 words, 8 unique letters. Start/target share 1 position.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from TAPE to PADS?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from TAPE to PADS takes exactly 6 steps.
Q: Any tips for today's puzzle?
A: This puzzle involves 4-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
TAPE
CAPE
CASE
BASE
BASS
PASS
PADS