How we rank Wordle starting words
Our ranking system evaluates each word using multiple scoring criteria to determine the optimal first guess for Wordle. Here's how it works:
Letter Frequency Score
We analyze the frequency of each letter across all possible Wordle answers. Words containing the most common letters (E, A, R, O, T, L, I, S, N) score higher because they're more likely to produce useful feedback.
Information Gain (Entropy)
Information gain measures how much a guess reduces uncertainty about the answer. A high information gain means the word will effectively narrow down the remaining possibilities, regardless of what the answer turns out to be. This is the most important metric.
Unique Letter Bonus
Words with 5 unique letters (no repeated letters) are preferred because they test more letters simultaneously. For example, CRANE tests 5 different letters, while TEETH only tests 3.
Why strong opening words matter
Words like CRANE often rank highly because they create balanced first-turn information:
- All 5 letters are unique
- Contains 3 of the top 5 most common letters (E, A, R)
- C and N are also very common in Wordle answers
- Achieves one of the highest information gain scores
- Letter positions align well with common English word patterns
Two-word opening strategies
Some players prefer using two specific opening words to cover more letters. Here are effective combinations:
- CRANE + DOIST – Covers 10 unique common letters
- SLATE + CORNY – Tests vowels and common consonants
- RAISE + CLOUT – Good vowel coverage with useful consonants
- STARE + BLIND – Balances vowels and consonants effectively
To turn opener theory into better play, review your results with Wordle Analyzer after a finished game. If you want general improvement guidance, read our Wordle Strategy guide. To understand why certain openers work, explore the Letter Frequency page.