**The Mini: A Quick and Enjoyable Take on The New York Times Crossword**
[The Mini](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) serves as a condensed edition of *The New York Times*’ renowned daily crossword. While the complete crossword presents a more time-consuming challenge that requires both knowledge and perseverance, The Mini offers a faster, more laid-back experience with its distinct appeal.
Featuring only a handful of clues, The Mini frequently turns into a race for players keen to see how swift they can finish it. Yet, running into a challenging clue may interrupt the rhythm and cause some aggravation. If you find yourself at a standstill — similar to [Wordle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-january-3-2025) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-january-3-2025) — don’t fret, we’re here to lend a hand.
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### Clues and Answers for NYT’s The Mini – Friday, January 3, 2025
#### **Across**
1. **Just go with it!**
**Answer:** Flow
2. **Buenos ___, Argentina**
**Answer:** Aires
3. **Group of conspirators**
**Answer:** Cabal
4. **”Wicked” star Cynthia**
**Answer:** Erivo
5. **Irish ___, dish that might be made with a pint of Guinness**
**Answer:** Stew
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#### **Down**
1. **Confront, as facts**
**Answer:** Face
2. **You can’t trust their stories**
**Answer:** Liars
3. **Move like a planet**
**Answer:** Orbit
4. **Salon job involving hair extensions**
**Answer:** Weave
5. **Not busy, business-wise**
**Answer:** Slow
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### More Games to Explore
If you’re interested in more puzzles and games, [Mashable’s games hub](https://games.mashable.com/) has everything you need. From Mahjong and Sudoku to free crosswords and more, there’s a variety for everyone to enjoy.
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### Featured Video: Wordle Strategy Tips
Looking to improve your Wordle skills? Watch this featured video where *The New York Times*’ Head of Games shares strategies for mastering the beloved word puzzle.
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### Bonus Content
– Are you also playing NYT Strands? [Check out today’s hints and answers for Strands](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-3-2025).
– Searching for yesterday’s Mini Crossword solution? [Find it here](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-answers-hints-january-2-2025).
Enjoy the puzzles!