How to Play Mini Crossword: Rules & Worked Tips

Start with the rules

Read an Across or Down clue, select its first square, and type your answer. A letter at a crossing belongs to both answers. Use the clue list to switch direction. Black squares are barriers, not spaces to fill.

Try a useful approach

Treat an uncertain answer as a possibility rather than a fact. If a five-letter clue suggests several words, fill an easier crossing first. A confirmed middle letter often rules out more candidates than another minute of guessing at the original clue.

Understand your result

Your entries save as you play. Submit the board when you want to finalize the result; incorrect letters do not earn points. Revealing the solution is optional help and marks the attempt assisted. Our compact crosswords use an open, six-entry pattern, so not every letter has a crossing.