Mini hints and answer for October 4, 2026

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

Clues11
Across5
Down6
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
Wine barrel (4)
Starts with C, ends with KCASK→
5A
6A
In a nutshell (6)
Starts with S, ends with YSIMPLY→
7A
2026 N.B.A. champions (6)
Starts with K, ends with SKNICKS→
8A

Down

1D
"Santa Claus Is ___ to Town" (holiday hit) (5)
Starts with C, ends with NCOMIN→
2D
Pet adoption org. (5)
Starts with A, ends with AASPCA→
3D
Like the texture of fine bedsheets (5)
Starts with S, ends with YSILKY→
4D
Bad things to leave locked in your house (4)
Starts with K, ends with SKEYS→
5D
"We said the same thing at the same time!" (4)
Starts with J, ends with XJINX→
6D
Hit the slopes (3)
Starts with S, ends with ISKI→

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 October 4, 2026?+

11 clues: 5 Across and 6 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Sam Ezersky and edited by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: Wine barrel (CASK); Leader of the Pussycats, in comics and film (JOSIE); In a nutshell (SIMPLY).

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