The Mini represents a smaller edition of The New York Times‘ highly regarded daily crossword. While the classic crossword provides a more extensive challenge that demands both knowledge and patience, The Mini offers an alternate experience.

With only a handful of clues to decipher, the daily puzzle acts as a speed challenge for numerous players.

When a challenging clue disrupts a player’s flow, it can be quite exasperating! If you find yourself struggling with The Mini — akin to Wordle and Connections — we’re available to assist.

Here are the clues and solutions for NYT’s The Mini for Friday, Jan. 2, 2026:

Across

Fill in the ___

• The solution is Blank.

Large quantity at a pot dispensary

• The solution is Ounce.

Remove one’s name from, as an online photo

• The solution is Untag.

Org. whose upcoming Artemis II mission will launch astronauts around the moon

• The solution is NASA.

Parched

• The solution is Dry.

Down

Hop like a kangaroo

• The solution is Hop.

___ lander (moon vehicle)

• The solution is Lunar.

Squirming in one’s seat

• The solution is Antsy.

College Football Playoff org.

• The solution is NCAA.

Beer dispenser

• The solution is Keg.

If you’re interested in more puzzles, Mashable has games available! Visit our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also trying out NYT Strands? <a