Introduction to NYT Mini Crossword

Can you complete the NYT Mini Crossword in under a minute? This article presents today's clues to challenge your skills! The NYT Mini is a beloved puzzle, known for its quick format. It serves as a condensed version of the classic crossword found in The New York Times, which is featured in over 300 newspapers and online. The NYT Crossword is a prominent American-style puzzle that is published daily, with difficulty levels that escalate throughout the week, starting easy on Mondays and reaching peak difficulty by Saturdays. The larger Sunday Crossword is a staple in the New York Times Magazine and holds a significant place in American culture.

The NYT Mini Crossword is an enjoyable daily puzzle that is smaller than its traditional counterpart. Accessible to anyone with a New York Times account, this puzzle, crafted by Joel Fagliano, typically features three to five clues in each direction on a 5x5 grid, although larger 7x7 grids may appear on Saturdays. Compared to the standard daily puzzle, the Mini is designed to be simpler.

Unlike the full NYT Crossword, the Mini can be played for free on the New York Times website or through the NYT Games app. However, accessing older puzzles requires a subscription to NYT Games.

WARNING: Spoilers are included below! Proceed with caution if you wish to see today's NYT Mini answers.

• Begin with straightforward clues to establish a base of letters and words. Focus on hints that have short answers or are based on common knowledge.


• Pay attention to intersecting letters as you fill in answers, as they can help you solve other words.


• If you're uncertain about an answer, feel free to make a guess; you can always change it later if needed.


• Try rearranging letters to form words, concentrating on common crossword answers and patterns.


• Common answers often relate to history, geography, and pop culture.


• Before checking hints, attempt to solve the puzzle independently.

Still struggling with some tricky words? Don't worry! Below are the solutions for today's NYT Crossword:

• 1) Late-night show V.I.P. – HOST


• 5) Island that’s home to Waimea Canyon, a.k.a. the Grand Canyon of Hawaii – KAUAI


• 6) Online notice to pay utilities – E-BILL


• 7) Action figure inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame – G.I. JOE


• 8) Suffix with Kazakh and Kyrgyz – STAN

• 1) Repeated activity – HABIT


• 2) Spiritualist’s board – OUIJA


• 3) Business with stylists – SALON


• 4) Material for much signage in the N.Y.C. subway system – TILE


• 5) Big beer barrels – KEGS

The NYT Mini Crossword was launched on August 21, 2014, to provide a quicker and more accessible daily challenge for puzzle enthusiasts. It was designed to attract a broader audience, especially those who found the full-size crossword daunting.

Available for free on the NYT website and mobile app, the Mini Crossword's quality has been maintained through careful editing over the years. Various freelance creators have contributed to its development, with Joel Fagliano serving as the editor since its inception.