**The Mini: A Brief and Enjoyable Look at the NYT Crossword**

[The Mini](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) is a compact version of *The New York Times*’ renowned daily crossword. While the complete crossword presents a more lengthy challenge that requires both insight and perseverance, The Mini offers an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to tackle, this daily puzzle has gained popularity among speedsters who enjoy seeing how fast they can finish it. Nonetheless, facing a challenging clue can break the rhythm and cause frustration. If you find yourself stalled on The Mini — much like with [Wordle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-january-29-2025) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-january-29-2025) — don’t fret, we’re here to assist you.

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### Clues and Answers for NYT’s The Mini (Wednesday, January 29, 2025):

#### **Across**
– **Type of bulb in many Christmas lights, for short**
**Answer:** **LED**

– **Diminish, as confidence**
**Answer:** **Erode**

– **With 7-Across, sawing a person in half, e.g.**
**Answer:** **Magic**

– **See 6-Across**
**Answer:** **Trick**

– **Breakaway religious groups**
**Answer:** **Sects**

#### **Down**
– **Sudoku solver’s asset**
**Answer:** **Logic**

– **Official decree**
**Answer:** **Edict**

– **Illusionists might cut them in half**
**Answer:** **Decks**

– **CPR pros**
**Answer:** **EMTs**

– **Like finding a four-leaf clover**
**Answer:** **Rare**

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Looking for additional puzzles to keep your mind agile? Check out [Mashable’s games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and much more!

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### Featured Video: The Wordle Strategy Used by NYT’s Head of Games
If you’re a Wordle enthusiast, be sure to watch this video showcasing expert strategies directly from *The New York Times*’ Head of Games.

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Are you also engaged in NYT Strands? [Find today’s hints and answers here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-29-2025).

Missed yesterday’s Mini? [Catch up with the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-answers-hints-january-28-2025).