NY Times Crossword
September 13, 2001
Robert H. Wolfe
(Title shown below)

The words below have something in common. Can you determine what it is and then think of a clever, appropriate title for this puzzle?

CARP
HELM
PICK
LOCK
BUCK

HINT:
Each of the words can be changed into a new one by adding the same letters.

Answer:

The letters ET can be added to each word to form a new one:

CARPET
HELMET
PICKET
LOCKET
BUCKET

The title of the puzzle is ALIEN ABDUCTIONS.