**The Mini: A Fast and Enjoyable Spin on the NYT Crossword**
[The Mini](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) serves as a compact iteration of *The New York Times*’ renowned daily crossword. In contrast to the classic crossword which presents a more demanding challenge that evaluates both your knowledge and patience, The Mini offers a wholly unique experience.
Comprising just a few clues, this daily puzzle has gained traction among speed aficionados who thrive on racing against time. Nonetheless, hitting a challenging clue that halts your momentum can be quite vexing! If you find yourself stumped on The Mini — similar to [Wordle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-5-2024) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-december-5-2024) — don’t fret, we’re here to assist.
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### Clues and Solutions for NYT’s The Mini (Thursday, December 5, 2024)
#### **Across**
1. **Belly muscles, informally**
**Answer:** **Abs**
2. **Harvest-time gathering**
**Answer:** **Reaps**
3. **Sound-alike for a frosty veggie**
**Answer:** **Carat**
4. **Encourage someone to exclaim “Why don’t you snap a photo – it’ll endure longer!”**
**Answer:** **Stare**
5. **Just produced**
**Answer:** **New**
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#### **Down**
1. **Forms of rainbows**
**Answer:** **Arcs**
2. **Sound-alike for a frosty veggie**
**Answer:** **Beat**
3. **Wrap for kitchens brand**
**Answer:** **Saran**
4. **Sound-alike for a frosty fruit**
**Answer:** **Pare**
5. **Hearty, warming winter dish**
**Answer:** **Stew**
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Craving more puzzles to stimulate your brain? Visit [Mashable’s games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and beyond!
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### Featured Video: The Wordle Technique Shown by NYT’s Head of Games
Looking to enhance your puzzle-solving abilities? Check out the video below to see how the New York Times’ Head of Games tackles Wordle.
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### More Puzzle Enjoyment
Are you engaged with NYT Strands as well? [Discover hints and solutions for today’s Strands here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-5).
Did you miss today’s Mini? [Find the newest Mini Crossword solution here](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-answers-hints-december-5-2024).
Enjoy your puzzling!