Word Ladder HintsPuzzle 1 · 3 moves
CAT → DOG
Try changing the vowel before changing the first or last letter.
- 1.CAT
- 2.________
- 3.________
- 4.DOG
Start with three letters
Easy word ladders with answers.
Try three short puzzles using familiar words. Fill the blank rungs first, then compare every move with the answer key. A legal move changes exactly one letter and keeps the word length at three.
Free practice sheet
Three three-letter puzzles to solve.
Write a real word on each blank rung. Only one letter can change at a time.
Puzzle 2 · 4 moves
HAT → PIG
Start with a word that rhymes with HAT, then turn toward PIG.
- 1.HAT
- 2.________
- 3.________
- 4.________
- 5.PIG
Puzzle 3 · 4 moves
PEN → CUP
Keep one letter in place at each move and check the new word aloud.
- 1.PEN
- 2.________
- 3.________
- 4.________
- 5.CUP
Answer key
These are verified routes in this site's pinned word list. Other word lists may allow a different route.
CAT → DOG
CAT → COT → DOT → DOG
HAT → PIG
HAT → HOT → POT → PIT → PIG
PEN → CUP
PEN → PAN → CAN → CAP → CUP
How to use these with a new solver
Cover the key while solving. Say the previous word aloud, change one letter, and read the new word aloud. If a learner gets stuck, use the clue before showing the next rung. These are short spelling puzzles, not a grade-level assessment. Different dictionaries can accept different words.
Ready for longer routes? Try the four-letter practice sheet, or generate another checked puzzle.