How NYT Mini Crossword Works
The NYT Mini Crossword is a bite-sized daily puzzle created by Joel Fagliano. Unlike the standard 15x15 daily crossword, the Mini features a compact 5x5 grid designed to be solved in under two minutes.
- Across & Down Clues are divided into horizontal (Across) and vertical (Down) directions with numbers matching grid coordinates.
- Progressive Hints Use Hint 1 for a descriptive nudge or Hint 2 for starting and ending letter bounds before using full reveals.
- Daily Reset New Mini puzzles drop daily at 10:00 PM EST on weekdays/Saturdays and 6:00 PM EST on Sundays.
NYT Mini Hints and Solutions for 21. August, 2026
Across and Down clue hints for today's Mini.
Across
5 Across: Home of Brunei and Bhutan
6 Across: Like the skin of snakes and fish
7 Across: Take ___ (suffer financially)
8 Across: See 1-Across
Down
1 Down: ___ Picchu
2 Down: "To repeat myself ..."
3 Down: Gentle musical melodies
4 Down: What "every kiss begins with," in jewelry ads
6 Down: Wearing an upside-down smile
Today's NYT Mini FAQ
How many clues are in today's NYT Mini crossword?
Today's Mini (#24405, 2026-08-21) has 10 clues — 5 Across and 5 Down.
What size is today's Mini grid?
A 5x5 grid.
What's the longest answer today?
5 letters — no spoilers, but that's your longest foothold if you're stuck.