The puzzle normally has a 5×5 grid (though it sometimes varies) and features clues that are fun, clever, and often wordplay-based. Sunday puzzles are generally easier than the tougher Saturday ones, making them great for casual solvers who just want a calm, light challenge. You can play the Mini for free on the NYT website, through the NYT Games app, or in the Play tab of the main News app.
Puzzle Release Schedule
The Mini Crossword resets each day at 10 p.m. EST on weekdays and Saturdays. Sunday puzzles, however, become available earlier—at 6 p.m. EST on Saturdays.
This gives eager solvers a chance to get a head start on their weekend challenge.
Across Clues
| Number | Clue | Hint | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Across | State with more pigs than people | Ends with the letter ‘I’ | IOWA |
| 5 Across | Sporcle offering | Ends with the letter ‘Z’ | QUIZ |
| 6 Across | Facial cavity that can become congested | Starts with the letter ‘S’ | SINUS |
| 8 Across | Jamaican style of preparing chicken | Ends with the letter ‘K’ | JERK |
| 9 Across | On the ocean | Starts with the letter ‘A’ | ASEA |
Down Clues
| Number | Clue | Hint | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Down | Geniuses have high ones | Ends with the letter ‘S’ | IQS |
| 2 Down | Kind of board whose name is trademarked by Hasbro | Ends with the letter ‘A’ | OUIJA |
| 3 Down | Drinks kept in a cellar | Starts with the letter ‘W’ | WINE |
| 4 Down | Sky-blue | Ends with the letter ‘E’ | AZURE |
| 7 Down | Reggae relative | Starts with the letter ‘S’ | SKA |
Puzzle Characteristics
Today’s Sunday Mini is a classic 5×5 grid with easy and balanced clues. They cover topics like geography (Iowa’s pig farming), entertainment (Sporcle quizzes), general knowledge (IQ scores and Ouija boards), and music (ska as a reggae relative).
Many solvers might discover something new today — for example, that Iowa isn’t just known for corn but also has a major pig farming industry. The Sporcle clue gives a nod to the popular trivia website, while the music references connect ska and reggae back to their Jamaican roots.
Difficulty Level
As expected for a Sunday edition, today’s Mini Crossword is rated moderately easy. It leans on general knowledge rather than complex wordplay or obscure trivia, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a relaxing, fun puzzle to start their day.
