Mini Crossword

A mini crossword is a 5×5 grid — a stripped-down version of a standard crossword that takes 1–3 minutes to solve instead of 10–20. The grid is small enough that most entries are 3–5 letters, the clues are straightforward definitions, and the vocabulary sticks to common words.

The format became popular through the New York Times, which launched a daily mini crossword in 2014. It filled a gap that full-size crosswords could not: a puzzle that fits into a coffee break, a commute, or a two-minute wait. Short enough to be non-committal but still satisfying to complete.

Mini crosswords work well as warm-ups before a full-size puzzle. They use the same mechanics — clues, numbered cells, interlocking across and down entries — on a grid small enough that you can usually fill it without needing hints. If you are new to crosswords entirely, the mini is a good place to learn the flow: read clue, type answer, watch the crossing letters fall into place.

The minis here rotate daily from a pool of 300 puzzles. Each one uses common vocabulary and direct clues. The same three play modes are available (Classic, Timed Trial, Challenge), though the Timed Trial clock is set to 3 minutes — which is generous for a 5×5. If you want something more demanding, the standard easy crossword uses a 7×7 grid, or jump straight to medium for 9×9.