Mini hints and answer for May 30, 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

6A
7-Eleven frozen drink (7)
Starts with S, ends with ESLURPEE→
8A
Getting a D or better (7)
Starts with P, ends with GPASSING→
9A
Sculpture or painting (3)
Starts with A, ends with TART→
10A
Poker-playing animal in a classic painting (3)
Starts with D, ends with GDOG→
11A
High Life beers, e.g. (7)
Starts with M, ends with SMILLERS→
13A
Democratic political figure ___ Tanden (5)
Starts with N, ends with ANEERA→
14A
See 1-Across (5)
Starts with G, ends with SGRASS→

Down

1D
Blindingly obvious (7)
Starts with G, ends with GGLARING→
2D
Cattle ___ (Wild West thief) (7)
Starts with R, ends with RRUSTLER→
3D
Letters between "cues" and "esses" (3)
Starts with A, ends with SARS→
4D
They spend a lot of time on the web (7)
Starts with S, ends with SSPIDERS→
5D
Married women, in Madrid (7)
Starts with S, ends with SSENORAS→
6D
Text that gets the reply "STOP," say (4)
Starts with S, ends with MSPAM→
7D
Staple grocery purchase (4)
Starts with E, ends with SEGGS→
12D
Broadway star ___ Michele (3)
Starts with L, ends with ALEA→

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 May 30, 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: It's always greener on the other side of the grid (GRASS); 7-Eleven frozen drink (SLURPEE); Getting a D or better (PASSING).

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