Mini hints and answer for August 15, 2026

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

Clues14
Across7
Down7
ConstructorSam Ezersky

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
Stores owned and run by their workers (5)
Starts with C, ends with SCOOPS→
6A
"Huh, wasn't expecting that!" (5)
Starts with O, ends with WOHWOW→
7A
Run under a faucet (5)
Starts with R, ends with ERINSE→
8A
Metal identifiers in the military (7)
Starts with D, ends with SDOGTAGS→
11A
Bit of music that plays as a podcast ends (5)
Starts with O, ends with OOUTRO→
12A
Font similar to Helvetica (5)
Starts with A, ends with LARIAL→
13A
Leave alone (5)
Starts with L, ends with ELETBE→

Down

1D
Cut the ___ (cancel cable) (4)
Starts with C, ends with DCORD→
2D
Dayton's state (4)
Starts with O, ends with OOHIO→
4D
Slouching is a bad form of this (7)
Starts with P, ends with EPOSTURE→
5D
Worry about the small stuff (7)
Starts with S, ends with TSWEATIT→
9D
Snatch (4)
Starts with G, ends with BGRAB→

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 15, 2026?+

14 clues: 7 Across and 7 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Sam Ezersky and edited by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: Stores owned and run by their workers (COOPS); "Huh, wasn't expecting that!" (OHWOW); Run under a faucet (RINSE).

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