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 5. October, 2026
Across and Down clue hints for today's Mini.
Across
4 Across: Goes down in defeat
6 Across: ___-3 fatty acids, nutritious compounds found in salmon
7 Across: Tech service with folders like "Sent," "Starred" and "Snoozed"
8 Across: Total angel
Down
1 Down: Semicolon without the dot
2 Down: Ask a question to Claude, e.g.
3 Down: Start
4 Down: Fuel for a campfire
5 Down: Predominant taste of anchovies
Today's NYT Mini FAQ
How many clues are in today's NYT Mini crossword?
Today's Mini (#24587, 2026-10-05) 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.