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 22. August, 2026
Across and Down clue hints for today's Mini.
Across
8 Across: Japanese for "folding paper"
9 Across: _a_er and _encil game
10 Across: "Dee-lish!"
11 Across: Specialized (in), as in college
15 Across: Small hair on which mascara is applied
16 Across: Sloppy smooch
Down
1 Down: Homer Simpson's shout
2 Down: Roth ___
3 Down: Actor Diesel of the "Fast & Furious" films
4 Down: "Sunny" part of a breakfast order
5 Down: Warrior with a katana
6 Down: "Sorry, my life is all over the place right now"
7 Down: Trent Reznor's rock band, to fans
11 Down: Call from a kitten
12 Down: Sailor's assent
13 Down: F-16 Fighting Falcon, e.g.
14 Down: Nonfielding baseball players, for short
Today's NYT Mini FAQ
How many clues are in today's NYT Mini crossword?
Today's Mini (#24341, 2026-08-22) has 18 clues — 7 Across and 11 Down.
What size is today's Mini grid?
A 7x7 grid.
What's the longest answer today?
7 letters — no spoilers, but that's your longest foothold if you're stuck.