**The Mini Crossword: Your Quick Puzzle Solution for the Day**

[**The Mini**](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) is a condensed iteration of *The New York Times*’ legendary daily crossword. In contrast to the full crossword, which is a lengthier and more demanding challenge requiring both wit and patience, The Mini presents a breezier, swifter option.

With only a handful of clues to tackle, The Mini often transforms into a race against the clock for those enthusiastic to gauge their puzzle proficiency. Yet, when faced with a particularly tough clue, the rhythm can be interrupted, leading to annoyance. If you’re finding yourself at a standstill in The Mini — similar to [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-24-2024) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-december-24-2024) — don’t fret, we’re here to help.

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### Clues and Answers for NYT’s The Mini (Sunday, December 29, 2024)

#### **Across**
– **Coming closer, in a manner of speaking**
Answer: **Warm**

– **Top-tier group**
Answer: **A Team**

– **___ journalism, style linked to Hunter S. Thompson**
Answer: **Gonzo**

– **Valued “activity” for new caregivers**
Answer: **Sleep**

– **Contrary to more**
Answer: **Less**

[**SEE ALSO:**](https://games.mashable.com/) [Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and beyond: Engage in games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)

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#### **Down**
– **Moves like the tail of an excited pup**
Answer: **Wags**

– **Circular coral formation**
Answer: **Atoll**

– **Zellweger from “Bridget Jones’s Diary”**
Answer: **Renee**

– **Puzzles found in a kid’s coloring book**
Answer: **Mazes**

– **Cleans the floor**
Answer: **Mops**

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In search of additional puzzles? [**Mashable’s games hub**](https://games.mashable.com/) offers a variety including Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and more!

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### Featured Video: Insights from Puzzle Experts
Looking to enhance your skills? Watch *The Wordle Strategy Used by the New York Times’ Head of Games* in the video featured above.

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**Are you enjoying NYT Strands as well?** [**Discover today’s hints and answers here.**](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-27)

**Missed a previous day?** [**Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Mini Crossword.**](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-answers-hints-december-28-2024)