Mini hints and answer for July 25, 2026

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

Clues18
Across7
Down11
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
"Good luck out there!" (7)
Starts with G, ends with MGOGETEM→
9A
Sticking together with paste (7)
Starts with G, ends with GGLUEING→
10A
Org. with a draft lottery (3)
Starts with N, ends with ANBA→
11A
Unable to relax (7)
Starts with U, ends with TUPTIGHT→
15A
Surround sound systems (7)
Starts with S, ends with SSTEREOS→
16A
"I wouldn't do that if I were you" (7)
Starts with B, ends with ABADIDEA→

Down

1D
Running joke (3)
Starts with G, ends with GGAG→
2D
3D
Made a sound of exertion (7)
Starts with G, ends with DGRUNTED→
4D
Ayo of "The Bear" (7)
Starts with E, ends with IEDEBIRI→
5D
Assessed for priority, as in the E.R. (7)
Starts with T, ends with DTRIAGED→
6D
Extremely long time (3)
Starts with E, ends with NEON→
7D
Fuel economy meas. (3)
Starts with M, ends with GMPG→
11D
Alternative to a lightning cable (3)
Starts with U, ends with BUSB→
12D
Book fair group, for short (3)
Starts with P, ends with APTA→
13D
Soil-loosening tool (3)
Starts with H, ends with EHOE→
14D
Org. that issues Known Traveler Numbers (3)
Starts with T, ends with ATSA→

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 July 25, 2026?+

18 clues: 7 Across and 11 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Sam Ezersky and edited by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: "Good luck out there!" (GOGETEM); File-sharing method between two Apple devices (AIRDROP); Sticking together with paste (GLUEING).

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