One step changes exactly one letter of the current word in place, and the result must be a word from the game’s list that is not already on your ladder.
Every rung differs from the one before it by exactly one letter, in the same position.
Not allowed
- Rearranging letters (COLD to DOLC).
- Adding or removing a letter.
- Reusing a word already on the ladder.
See also What is par. For tips, read the Word Ladder tips and strategy.