Across
Down
Mini Crossword - Daily Brain Teasing Puzzle Game
Challenge your vocabulary and wordplay skills with our daily Mini Crossword puzzle. Solve clever clues, fill in the grid, and race against the clock in this quick yet satisfying brain workout. A new puzzle every day!
What is Mini Crossword?
Mini Crossword is a compact version of the classic crossword puzzle, designed for quick solving sessions. Unlike traditional crosswords that can take hours, our Mini Crossword typically features a 5×5 grid that you can solve in just a few minutes.
Perfect for:
- • Coffee breaks and quick mental workouts
- • Improving vocabulary and spelling skills
- • Sharpening problem-solving abilities
- • Daily brain training routines
Each puzzle is carefully crafted with a mix of straightforward clues and clever wordplay. Whether you're a crossword novice or a seasoned solver, our Mini Crossword offers the perfect balance of challenge and satisfaction.
How to Play - Step by Step
Understanding the Grid
The crossword grid consists of white cells (for letters) and black cells (blocked). Each numbered cell marks the start of a word going Across (→) or Down (↓).
Example 5×5 Grid:
Reading the Clues
Clues are divided into two sections: Across (horizontal words) and Down (vertical words). Each clue number corresponds to a numbered cell in the grid.
→ Across Clues
- 1. Feline pet (3 letters)
- 4. Large body of water (5 letters)
- 6. Opposite of yes (2 letters)
↓ Down Clues
- 1. Automobile (3 letters)
- 2. Frozen water (3 letters)
- 3. Not old (3 letters)
Filling in Answers
Click on a cell to select it, then type your answer. The cursor will automatically advance to the next cell. Here's how intersecting words work:
Example: Filling "CAT" across and "CAR" down
Key Rule: Letters at intersecting cells must satisfy both the Across and Down words!
Keyboard Controls & Navigation
Select a cell
Click again to toggle Across ↔ Down
Enter letters
Automatically moves to next cell
Backspace
Delete letter and move back
Arrow Keys
Navigate between cells
Next Clue
Jump to the next clue
Toggle Direction
Switch Across ↔ Down
Understanding Clue Types
1. Definition Clues (Most Common)
Straightforward synonyms or descriptions of the answer.
2. Question Mark Clues (?)
Indicates wordplay, puns, or lateral thinking required.
3. Abbreviation Clues (Abbr.)
When you see "Abbr." the answer is an abbreviation or acronym.
4. Fill-in-the-Blank Clues
Part of a phrase with blanks to fill in.
Expert Tips & Strategies
Start with Easy Clues
Solve the clues you're most confident about first. These give you crossing letters that help with harder clues.
Use Crossing Letters
If 3-Down starts with "C" and you know 1-Across is "CAT", you've got your first letter!
Think About Word Length
A 3-letter word for "automobile" is likely CAR, not VEHICLE. Count the cells!
Look for Common Patterns
Three-letter words often end in -AT, -AN, -ED, or -ER. Use these patterns to your advantage.
Don't Get Stuck
If you're stuck on one clue, move to another. Coming back with fresh eyes often helps.
Verify with Crosses
Always check that your answer makes sense with intersecting words. If they don't match, reconsider.
Read Clues Carefully
Pay attention to tense, plurality, and punctuation. "Runs" (plural) vs "Run" (singular) matters!
Practice Daily
The more you solve, the better you'll recognize common crossword words and clue patterns.
🏆 Pro Solver Tip
Master solvers often start with the shortest words first (2-3 letters) because there are fewer possibilities. Once you have these anchor words filled in, the longer words become much easier to solve using the crossing letters!
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the Mini Crossword grid?
Most days feature a 5×5 grid that can be solved in just a few minutes. Weekend puzzles might be slightly larger (7×7) for an extra challenge!
Is there a new puzzle every day?
Yes! A fresh Mini Crossword puzzle is published daily. Each puzzle is uniquely crafted with new clues and answers.
Can I play previous day's puzzles?
Currently, we feature the daily puzzle. Check back each day for a new challenge!
What if I make a mistake?
Simply click on the incorrect cell and type the correct letter. You can also use Backspace to delete and re-enter your answer.
Are there hints available?
The game tracks your time and progress. Challenge yourself to solve without hints, but remember: using crossing letters from solved words is a great strategy!
How do I improve my solving speed?
Practice daily! Start with easy clues, learn common crossword words (like ERA, ORE, ACE), and use keyboard shortcuts to navigate faster.