Mini hints and answer for August 1, 2026

Hints that get gradually more specific, then the answer if you need it. Nothing is revealed until you tap.

Clues16
Across8
Down8
ConstructorJoel Fagliano

Today’s Mini clues, hints & answers

Every clue from this puzzle with a hint and the answer behind separate buttons, so you only see what you need. Click a clue for its own page.

Across

1A
Coffee choice before bed (5)
Starts with D, ends with FDECAF→
6A
Recurring bug? (6)
Starts with C, ends with ACICADA→
8A
Fist pound (3)
Starts with D, ends with PDAP→
9A
Back of a soccer goal (3)
Starts with N, ends with TNET→
10A
Carefully thought (over) (6)
Starts with M, ends with DMULLED→
12A
Brain sparks (5)
Starts with I, ends with SIDEAS→
13A

Down

1D
Indentations at the end of a smile (7)
Starts with D, ends with SDIMPLES→
2D
Green: Prefix (3)
Starts with E, ends with OECO→
3D
Film festival with the Palme d'Or (6)
Starts with C, ends with SCANNES→
4D
No ___ sugar (product claim) (5)
Starts with A, ends with DADDED→
5D
Speedy (4)
Starts with F, ends with TFAST→
6D
Anthropic's A.I. assistant (6)
Starts with C, ends with ECLAUDE→
7D
Own up to (5)
Starts with A, ends with TADMIT→
11D
Back muscle, for short (3)
Starts with L, ends with TLAT→

How to solve the Mini

Click a square and type to fill the grid. Each clue is numbered and marked Across or Down; the answer runs from the numbered square in that direction. The timer starts when you open the puzzle, and completing the grid correctly stops it. There are no penalties for wrong letters, so experienced solvers fill fast and fix as they go.

Want the full method? Read our Mini strategy and tips, or check how to play the Mini on the hub.

Mini tips for tomorrow

  • Fill the long answers first. In a 5x5 grid the five-letter entries give you a letter in every crossing. Start there.
  • Read every clue once before typing. A quick scan usually reveals two or three gimmes that unlock the rest.
  • Trust the crossings. If an Across answer feels wrong, check the Down words through it rather than guessing again.

Done for today? Try The Midi, NYT Crossword, LA Times Crossword, all with hints first and answers behind a reveal.

Previous Mini puzzles

Mini FAQ

How many clues are in the Mini for August 1, 2026?+

16 clues: 8 Across and 8 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: Coffee choice before bed (DECAF); Recurring bug? (CICADA); California's most valuable crop, just barely edging out grapes (ALMONDS).

What time does the NYT Mini come out?+

The next day's Mini is released at 10:00 pm Eastern Time on weekdays and 6:00 pm on weekends.

Where can I find past Mini answers?+

Every past Mini on GameAnswers.com has its own page with hints and answers for every clue. Click any date above.

Today’s other puzzle answers

Mini guides