NYT Mini Crossword: Clues and answers for July 26, 2025

Each puzzle includes a mix of across and down clues, often drawing from diverse topics such as pop culture, history, science, and language. The Mini’s compact format and clever design have made it a popular daily ritual for players worldwide.

NYT Mini Crossword hints for July 26, 2025

Across clues:

1 Down: Removes pesky insects? — Hint: ends with “S”
8 Down: Punches up existing jokes — Hint: ends with “P”
9 Down: “Life is like a box of chocolates,” for instance — Hint: ends with “Y”
10 Down: Single pip on a domino — Hint: starts with “P”
11 Down: Feeling upbeat — Hint: ends with “R”
15 Down: Core topic in sex-ed — Hint: ends with “T”
16 Down: Withdraws from the Union — Hint: starts with “S”

Down clues:

1 Down: A hop-forward drink you might order at happy hour — Hint: ends with “A”
2 Down: Resident of a convent — Hint: starts with “N”
3 Down: Tech firm known for its bright-yellow look and ghost icon — Hint: ends with “C”
4 Down: Something that literally blocks the sun — Hint: starts with “E”
5 Down: Describing many ingredients in a Cobb salad — Hint: starts with “C”
6 Down: Give a sudden, sharp pull — Hint: ends with “G”
7 Down: Person who lives under an alias — Hint: starts with “S”
11 Down: Abbrev. for amounts drawn into a syringe — Hint: starts with “C”
12 Down: Long-handled garden implement — Hint: ends with “E”
13 Down: Direction opposite WSW — Hint: starts with “E”
14 Down: Abbr. for certain football linemen — Hint: starts with “R”

NYT Mini Crossword answers for July 26, 2025

Across answers:

1 Down: Removes bugs from code — DEBUGS
8 Down: Punches up a joke to add humor — PUNCH UP
9 Down: A figurative comparison, e.g., “Life is like a box of chocolates” — ANALOGY
10 Down: Single dot on a domino tile — PIP
11 Down: Feeling upbeat and lively — CHIPPER
15 Down: Crucial topic about permission in sex-ed — CONSENT
16 Down: Formally withdraws from the Union — SECEDES

Down answers:

1 Down: Hop-forward drink you’d order at happy hour — IPA
2 Down: Woman who lives in a convent — NUN
3 Down: Social-media firm with a yellow theme and ghost logo — SNAP INC
4 Down: Solar-blocking astronomical event — ECLIPSE
5 Down: Cut into small pieces, like many Cobb-salad ingredients — CHOPPED
6 Down: Give a sudden jerk — TUG
7 Down: Person operating under a covert identity — SPY
11 Down: Abbrev. for syringe volumes — CCS
12 Down: Long-handled garden weeding tool — HOE
13 Down: Compass bearing opposite WSW — ENE
14 Down: Certain football linemen, abbr. — RT

Tips for solving NYT Mini Crossword

Start with familiar clues: Begin by answering the clues you find easiest. This helps fill in parts of the grid and provides context for the remaining clues.
Leverage crossings: Use intersecting words to guide your guesses for tougher clues. The Mini’s smaller grid size makes this strategy especially effective.
Think laterally: Some clues rely on wordplay or less obvious associations. Be open to interpreting the clue from different angles.
Focus on common themes: Mini puzzles often have subtle themes that can help guide your answers. Look for patterns in the clues or answers.

Why is NYT Mini Crossword so popular?

The Mini crossword’s success lies in its accessibility and versatility. Its quick-play format makes it ideal for short breaks, while its clever clues ensure a rewarding mental challenge. The puzzle’s broad appeal spans casual players and seasoned crossword enthusiasts alike.

Additionally, the Mini promotes cognitive benefits, such as improved vocabulary, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. Its engaging design encourages players to return daily, building a streak and fostering a sense of accomplishment.