NYT Mini Crossword Answers & Hints for March 31 & April 1, 2026

The NYT Mini Crossword has gained popularity due to its accessibility and quick completion time. Unlike the larger, more complex NYT Crossword, the Mini can be finished in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a short break. The puzzles often include a mix of general knowledge, pop culture, and wordplay, appealing to a broad audience.\n\nMarch 31, 2026 - Key Clues and Answers:\n\n* Across:\n * 1 Across: "Paradise" or "Lost" - SHOW\n * 5 Across: Hawaiian island with the famous road to Hana - MAUI\n * 6 Across: \_\_\_\_Zeneca (pharma company) - ASTRA\n * 8 Across: "Stainless" metal - STEEL\n * 9 Across: One half of a centaur - HORSE\n* Down:\n * 1 Down: Massive success - SMASH\n * 2 Down: Must - HASTO\n * 3 Down: \_\_\_boroughs (term for the non-Manhattan parts of New York City) - OUTER\n * 4 Down: Electrician\'s specialty - WIRES\n * 7 Down: Bar beverage - ALE\n\nApril 1, 2026 - Key Clues and Answers:\n\n* Across:\n * 1A. YYYYYYY - WISE\n * 5A. Back half of an old cassette tape - SIDEB\n * 6A. Perform lines that aren\'t in the script - ADLIB\n * 7A. GGGGGGG - GEEZ\n * 8A. Butt, to Brits - ARSE\n* Down:\n * 1D. Opposite of narrower - WIDER\n * 2D. Keeps the engine on while parked - IDLES\n * 3D. CCCCCCC - SEIZE\n * 4D. \_\_\_ and flow (tidal opposites) - EBB\n * 5D. Long, epic tale - SAGA

New puzzles drop at 10 p.m. EST on weekdays and Saturdays, and at 6 p.m. EST on Sundays.

The grid is typically 5x5, but Saturdays can expand to a larger grid.

Did you find these Mini Crosswords challenging? What was your fastest completion time? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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