**The Mini Crossword: A Brief and Enjoyable Puzzle Experience**
[**The Mini**](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) serves as a smaller edition of *The New York Times*’ legendary daily crossword puzzle. Unlike the conventional crossword, which requires a significant investment of time alongside a wealth of knowledge and patience, The Mini delivers a delightful, compact experience that feels entirely different.
Containing just a handful of clues, The Mini has turned into a daily speed test for numerous participants. Nonetheless, stumbling upon a challenging clue can swiftly break your flow, resulting in annoyance. If you ever find yourself at a standstill while engaging with The Mini — similar to how one might with [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-january-21-2025) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-january-21-2025) — don’t fret, we’re here to assist.
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### Clues and Answers for NYT’s The Mini (Tuesday, January 21, 2025)
#### **Across**
– **Somewhat moist**: **Damp**
– **Reserved**: **Aloof**
– **Animal on a lifeboat with Pi, in *Life of Pi***: **Tiger**
– **Less than 90 degrees**: **Acute**
– **”What ___ is new?”**: **Else**
#### **Down**
– **Unprocessed material if it’s raw**: **Data**
– **Figure who navigates through the looking glass**: **Alice**
– **Business magnate**: **Mogul**
– **Individuals working with measurements?**: **Poets**
– **Without charge**: **Free**
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### Seeking More Games?
If you’re in the mood for more puzzles, [**Mashable’s games hub**](https://games.mashable.com/) has what you need! Dive into Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and additional activities to keep your mind sharp and engaged.
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### Highlighted Video: Expert Puzzle Tips
Looking to enhance your skills? Watch the highlighted video below, featuring *The New York Times*’ Head of Games sharing their Wordle tactics.
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### More Puzzle Enjoyment
– Tackling NYT Strands? [**Get hints and answers for today’s Strands here.**](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-21-2025)
– Missed yesterday’s Mini? [**Find the solution to the January 20, 2025 puzzle here.**](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-answers-hints-january-20-2025)
Enjoy your puzzling!