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Overview of NYT Mini Crossword

Can you complete the NYT Mini Crossword in under a minute? This article delves into today's clues to challenge your skills! The NYT Mini is a beloved puzzle, known for its quick format, which is a condensed version of the classic crossword found in The New York Times. This puzzle is featured in over 300 newspapers and is also available online, making it a staple of American puzzle culture. The difficulty level varies throughout the week, starting with easier puzzles on Mondays and escalating to more challenging ones by Saturday. The Sunday Crossword, a larger version, is highlighted in the New York Times Magazine and holds a significant place in American tradition.

What Is the NYT Mini Crossword?

The NYT Mini Crossword is an engaging daily puzzle that offers a smaller alternative to the standard NYT Crossword. Accessible to anyone with a New York Times account, this daily 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 traditional crossword, the Mini version is designed to be more approachable.

How to Access the Mini Crossword

Unlike the full-sized NYT Crossword, the Mini can be played for free on the New York Times website or through the NYT Games app. However, a subscription is required to access the archive of previous puzzles.

Tips for Solving the Mini Crossword

• 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 provide crucial hints for solving other words.


• If you're uncertain about an answer, don't hesitate to make an educated guess; you can always revise it later.


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


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


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

NYT Mini Crossword Answers for May 15, 2025

If you're struggling with some of the tricky clues, here are the answers:

ACROSS Answers

• 1: Direction opposite of WSW – ENE


• 4: Shoot out, as lava from a volcano – SPEW


• 5: "In what place?" – WHERE


• 6: Plants you didn’t plant, perhaps – WEEDS


• 7: Like Mini crosswords … and a phonetic description of this puzzle? – EASY

DOWN Answers

• 1: Fencing swords – EPEES


• 2: Prone to geeking out – NERDY


• 3: Farm animals that sound like vowels not seen in this puzzle? – EWES


• 4: Stadium at which the Beatles performed an iconic 1965 concert – SHEA


• 5: Org. for Hulk Hogan and John Cena – WWE

The History of the Mini Crossword

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 traditional crossword daunting. The Mini is available daily for free on the NYT website and mobile app. The quality of the puzzle has been enhanced over the years through careful editing, with several freelance creators contributing, while Joel Fagliano has been the editor since its inception.

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