**The Mini Crossword: A Quick and Enjoyable Puzzle Challenge**
[The Mini](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) is a streamlined version of *The New York Times*’ classic daily crossword. While the complete crossword presents a more time-consuming experience that challenges both your knowledge and patience, The Mini offers a breezier, swift challenge with an entirely different atmosphere.
With just a handful of clues to tackle, The Mini has evolved into a daily sprint test for numerous players. Nonetheless, encountering a challenging clue can throw off your momentum and cause irritation. If you ever find yourself at a standstill — similar to [Wordle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-31-2024) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-december-31-2024) — don’t fret, we’re here to assist.
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### Clues and Answers for NYT’s The Mini (Tuesday, December 31, 2024)
#### **Across**
– **Dashboard gadget for recording, informally**
Answer: **Cam**
– **Dashboard gadget for jamming out**
Answer: **Radio**
– **Warm slippers brand featuring a nut in its emblem**
Answer: **Acorn**
– **”___ … two …”**
Answer: **Three**
– **Conclusion**
Answer: **End**
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### **SEE ALSO:**
[Mahjong, Sudoku, complimentary crossword, and more: Enjoy games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)
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#### **Down**
– **Computer memory unit**
Answer: **Cache**
– **Decorate**
Answer: **Adorn**
– **Stuck in thick mud**
Answer: **Mired**
– **Animal of the Chinese zodiac**
Answer: **Rat**
– **”… ___ … happy new year!”**
Answer: **One**
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Searching for additional puzzles? [Mashable’s games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) provides Mahjong, Sudoku, complimentary crosswords, and more!
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### **Featured Video for You**
**The Wordle Strategy Employed by The New York Times’ Head of Games**
*(Watch below for advice and strategies to enhance your Wordle gameplay!)*
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### More Puzzle Assistance
– Are you also engaging with NYT Strands? [Explore today’s hints and solutions for Strands](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-31).
– Missed out on yesterday’s Mini Crossword? [Locate the answer here](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-answers-hints-december-30-2024).
Enjoy your puzzling!