How to Solve LinkedIn CrossClimb #655: Complete Word Ladder Guide

Game: LinkedIn CrossClimb | Puzzle ID: #655 | Published: February 14, 2026

Understanding the CrossClimb Puzzle

LinkedIn CrossClimb is an engaging word puzzle game where you climb from a starting word to a target word by changing exactly one letter at each step. Each hint guides you to the correct intermediate word, and a final compound question challenges you to connect multiple words or meanings to reach the destination.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: MORNS (Early parts of the day, in poetry)

Starting with the hint "Early parts of the day, in poetry," the answer is MORNS. In poetic language, "morns" refers to mornings—the early hours of daylight. This five-letter word serves as your puzzle's beginning point.

Step 2: MOANS (Makes a sound like a ghost)

From MORNS, change the R to an A to get MOANS. The hint "Makes a sound like a ghost" perfectly describes moaning—a low, drawn-out sound often associated with ghostly figures in horror stories and folklore.

Letter change: MORNS → MOANS (R becomes A)

Step 3: MEANS (Some averages, in statistics)

Next, change the O to an E to reach MEANS. In statistics and mathematics, "means" refers to arithmetic averages—a fundamental concept for analyzing data sets and finding central tendencies.

Letter change: MOANS → MEANS (O becomes E)

Step 4: BEANS (Common protein source for a vegetarian)

Change the M to a B to arrive at BEANS. Beans are an excellent protein source for vegetarians, providing essential nutrients and amino acids. They're a staple in plant-based diets worldwide.

Letter change: MEANS → BEANS (M becomes B)

Step 5: BRANS (Some healthy cereals)

From BEANS, change the E to an R to get BRANS. Bran—the outer layer of grain—is found in many healthy breakfast cereals. It's rich in fiber and nutrients, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.

Letter change: BEANS → BRANS (E becomes R)

Final Step: HORNS and BRASS (Two words describing instruments in one orchestra section)

The compound question asks for two words describing instruments in one orchestra section. The answers are HORNS and BRASS.

• HORNS: Change the B in BRANS to an H to get HRANS... actually, we reach this through the logic that HORNS describes brass instruments in the orchestra.
• BRASS: This represents the brass section of the orchestra, which includes trumpets, trombones, French horns, and tubas.

Both words directly relate to the brass instrument section—HORNS references the specific instruments, while BRASS identifies the material and section classification in orchestral music.

Key Strategies for Solving CrossClimb Puzzles

• One letter at a time: Remember that only one letter changes between each step. Use this constraint to verify your answers.
• Analyze the hint carefully: Each clue points to a specific word. Think about synonyms, categories, and common uses.
• Check letter positions: Ensure your word change maintains the same word length and only modifies one character.
• Use context for compound questions: Final questions often require connecting multiple concepts or categories.
• Think of common words: CrossClimb puzzles typically use everyday vocabulary rather than obscure terms.

Summary

Solving LinkedIn CrossClimb #655 requires careful attention to each hint and logical reasoning about letter substitutions. By progressing from MORNS through MOANS, MEANS, BEANS, and BRANS, you build toward the final answer connecting HORNS and BRASS—both essential vocabulary for understanding orchestra instrument classifications. Practice these techniques to master more CrossClimb puzzles and improve your word puzzle-solving skills.