The clue "Top dog?" has a question mark signaling wordplay. Here, "top dog" implies the best or leader, but the pun flips it: a "mutt" (a mixed-breed dog) contrasts with purebred "top-tier" dogs. A themer from the puzzle’s top edge. “Top” points to clue position, not status
5Top hat?LID???✨ See Why
The clue "Top hat?" has a question mark, signaling wordplay. This theme clue sits at the grid’s top. “Top” refers to its placement, while “hat” is the true clue. The answer, LID, is a slangy hat synonym.
8Top gun?PISTOL??????✨ See Why
Another themed entry from the top row. “Top” tells us where to look, while “gun” leads us to the answer PISTOL, not the action movie.
14Olympic event in which athletes wear masksEPEE????✨ See Why
The answer is EPEE because it refers to one of the three fencing disciplines in the Olympics. In fencing, athletes wear protective gear, including masks, to ensure safety during competition. The épée is a specific type of sword used in this event, making it the correct solution.
15Balmy time in BordeauxETE???✨ See Why
The clue "Balmy time in Bordeaux" has a French indicator ("Bordeaux" is a city in France), so the answer is likely in French. "Été" is the French word for "summer," which is a warm, balmy time of year. Hence, the solution is ETE.
16Squids' kinOCTOPI??????✨ See Why
The clue "Squids' kin" refers to animals closely related to squids. Both squids and octopi are cephalopods, a class of marine animals with tentacles. "Octopi" is the plural form of octopus, making it a logical answer since the clue asks for a plural ("kin" implies multiple).
17Marilyn Monroe used eyeliner to darken the one on her cheekMOLE????✨ See Why
The answer is MOLE because Marilyn Monroe famously enhanced her natural beauty mark (a small mark on the skin) on her cheek using eyeliner. The word "mole" refers to such a feature, often considered attractive. This aligns perfectly with the clue's description.
18Late actor KilmerVAL???✨ See Why
The answer "VAL" refers to Val Kilmer, a well-known actor famous for roles in movies like Top Gun and Batman Forever. The clue specifies "Late actor," referencing his career's slowdown due to health issues, not his death. This aligns with VAL as the correct solution.
19Be off the markMISAIM??????✨ See Why
The clue "Be off the mark" refers to missing a target or not aiming correctly, which directly aligns with the definition of "MISAIM." To "mis-aim" means to aim incorrectly or fail to hit the intended mark, making it a perfect fit for the clue.
20Number with 12 zeros in the U.S. but 18 zeros in other parts of the worldONETRILLION???????????✨ See Why
The term "one trillion" refers to 1,000,000,000,000 (12 zeros) in the U.S. using the short scale. In other parts of the world that use the long scale, "one trillion" equals 1,000,000,000,000,000,000 (18 zeros). This difference in numerical naming explains the clue.
23Cotillion V.I.P.DEB???✨ See Why
The answer "DEB" refers to a debutante, a young woman making her formal debut into society, often presented at events like cotillions. A cotillion is a formal ball, and debutantes are key participants, hence a "V.I.P." at such an event. "DEB" is a common abbreviation for debutante.
24Top 10 songHIT???✨ See Why
The solution "HIT" refers to a successful and popular song, often charting in the Top 10 of music rankings. In this context, a "HIT" is a widely recognized and celebrated track that achieves commercial success and public acclaim. Hence, it fits the clue perfectly.
25Auntie ___ (food court chain)ANNES?????✨ See Why
The answer is ANNES because it refers to Auntie Anne's, a popular food court chain known for its soft pretzels and snacks. The clue, "Auntie ___," directly points to this well-known brand, widely found in malls and food courts across the United States and beyond.
27Who, What or I Don't Know, to Abbott and CostelloBASEMAN???????✨ See Why
The clue refers to Abbott and Costello's famous comedy routine "Who's on First?" In the sketch, "Who," "What," and "I Don't Know" are the humorous names of the first, second, and third basemen, respectively. Thus, "Who, What or I Don't Know" collectively refers to a BASEMAN.
31Popular digital wallet serviceCASHAPP???????✨ See Why
CASHAPP is the answer because it is a widely used digital wallet service that allows users to send, receive, and manage money electronically. The clue directly describes this functionality, and Cash App is one of the most recognized services in this category.
35Non-RxOTC???✨ See Why
The clue "Non-Rx" refers to medications that do not require a prescription ("Rx"). The abbreviation "OTC" stands for "over-the-counter," which describes such medications. Therefore, OTC is the correct answer.
36Dance instructionSTEP????✨ See Why
The clue "Dance instruction" refers to a basic command given during dance. A "step" is a fundamental movement or direction in dancing, often taught as part of choreography or during lessons, making it an apt and straightforward answer.
38Jason of "How I Met Your Mother"SEGEL?????✨ See Why
The answer is SEGEL because Jason Segel is the actor who portrayed Marshall Eriksen, one of the main characters, on the popular TV sitcom How I Met Your Mother. The clue directly references his first name and his role in the show.
39One wearing a djellaba robe, typicallyARAB????✨ See Why
The djellaba is a traditional long, loose-fitting robe historically worn in North Africa and the Middle East, regions predominantly inhabited by Arabs. As the clue says "typically," ARAB is the fitting answer, describing the cultural group commonly associated with wearing this garment.
41Outer boundaries, as where this puzzle's theme answers are locatedEDGES?????✨ See Why
The answer "EDGES" fits because "outer boundaries" literally refers to the edges of something. Additionally, this clue is the theme revealer. EDGES tells us that all theme clues appear on the puzzle’s outer edges. Words like “top,” “side,” and “bottom” in clues are red herrings, they indicate position, not meaning. For example, [Top dog?] is MUTT, and [Side dish?] is PLATE. The true definitions are the second words.
44Hospital fluidsSERA????✨ See Why
"SERA" is the plural of "serum," a vital fluid from blood commonly used in hospitals for diagnostic tests or treatments, such as antibody tests. The clue "Hospital fluids" indicates multiple types of such fluids, making "SERA" the correct pluralized answer.
45Pat ___, three-time N.B.A. Coach of the YearRILEY?????✨ See Why
The answer is RILEY because Pat Riley is a legendary N.B.A. coach who has won the "Coach of the Year" award three times (in 1990, 1993, and 1997). Known for coaching the Lakers, Knicks, and Heat, his success and fame make him the clear solution to this clue.
47Bit of litter by a theaterSTUB????✨ See Why
"STUB" refers to a ticket stub, which is a small piece of paper often discarded after entering a theater. It fits the clue as it physically represents "litter" associated with a theater visit. The wordplay connects the setting (theater) with the common trash left behind.
49It may be picked by the pickyNIT???✨ See Why
The clue "It may be picked by the picky" is a pun. A "nit" is the egg of a louse, commonly "picked" out of hair. The wordplay links "picked" literally and metaphorically to being meticulous or overly picky when scrutinizing small details. Hence, the answer is "NIT."
50Kind of EmmyDAYTIME???????✨ See Why
The answer "DAYTIME" refers to the Daytime Emmy Awards, which specifically honor excellence in daytime television programming, like soap operas and talk shows. The clue "Kind of Emmy" prompts you to identify a category of Emmy Awards, making "DAYTIME" a fitting solution.
53Last Supper guestAPOSTLE???????✨ See Why
The Last Supper, a famous biblical event, was attended by Jesus and his twelve disciples. These disciples were also known as apostles. Since the clue refers to a "guest" at this event, the correct answer is APOSTLE, aligning with the biblical narrative.
55One end of a batteryANODE?????✨ See Why
The ANODE is one terminal of a battery where oxidation occurs, releasing electrons. A battery has two ends: the ANODE (negative terminal, typically) and the cathode (positive terminal). The clue refers to this electrical component, making ANODE the correct answer for "One end of a battery."
57State animal of UtahELK???✨ See Why
The state animal of Utah is the elk, specifically the Rocky Mountain elk. It was chosen as a symbol of the state's wildlife in 1971 due to its prominence in Utah's ecosystems and cultural heritage. Thus, ELK fits perfectly as the answer to this clue.
58Ryder Cup org.PGA???✨ See Why
The Ryder Cup is a biennial golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States. Its organizing body in the U.S. is the Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) of America, hence "PGA" is the abbreviated answer for "Ryder Cup org."
61Famous misquote of a James Cagney line from the 1932 film "Taxi!"YOUDIRTYRAT???????????✨ See Why
The answer "YOUDIRTYRAT" comes from the famous misquote attributed to James Cagney. While Cagney never directly said this in "Taxi!" (1932), it's widely associated with his tough-guy persona in classic gangster movies. The clue hints at this cultural misattribution with the phrase "Famous misquote."
66Beyond beliefUNREAL??????✨ See Why
The phrase "Beyond belief" describes something extraordinary, incredible, or hard to comprehend. The word "UNREAL" captures this idea perfectly, as it conveys something amazing, unbelievable, or surreal—beyond what one might consider real or believable in normal circumstances. Thus, "UNREAL" is the fitting solution.
68HunkGOB???✨ See Why
The clue "Hunk" refers to a large piece or portion of something. "Gob" is slang for a lump or chunk, often used in casual speech (e.g., "a gob of gum"). Therefore, "Gob" works as the solution, aligning with the idea of "hunk" as a chunk or mass.
69___ landLALA????✨ See Why
The answer "LALA" refers to "La La Land," a popular phrase often describing a fanciful or dreamlike state, as well as the 2016 Oscar-winning film. The blank in the clue suggests filling in a common phrase, and "La-La Land" fits perfectly as a well-known expression.
70Repeated sounds in "Hey Jude"NANANA??????✨ See Why
The clue "Repeated sounds in 'Hey Jude'" refers to the song's iconic repetitive chorus, where "na-na-na-na" is sung multiple times. As the clue is in quotes, it signals nonverbal sounds. Thus, the answer NANANA appropriately captures this repeated lyrical phrase.
71From ___ Z ATO???✨ See Why
The phrase "From ___ Z" refers to the expression "From A to Z," meaning something covers everything comprehensively from beginning to end. The answer "ATO" represents "A to," preserving the meaning of the phrase while fitting the crossword format.
72Many moonsAGES????✨ See Why
The clue "Many moons" uses figurative language. "Moons" can refer to long periods of time, and "many" suggests an extended span. Thus, the answer "AGES" fits, as it means a very long time, aligning with the phrase "many moons ago."
73Bottom feeder?TROUGH??????✨ See Why
The question mark in "Bottom feeder?" signals wordplay. A bottom-edge themer. “Feeder” is the focus, not the aquatic misdirection of “bottom feeder.” The answer TROUGH is where animals feed, fittingly at the bottom.
74Bottom line?RAY???✨ See Why
The clue "Bottom line?" uses a pun. From the grid’s bottom edge, this theme clue plays with geometry. “Line” is the clue, yielding RAY, a type of line. “Bottom” signals placement.
75Bottom dollar?BUCK????✨ See Why
The clue "Bottom dollar?" with a question mark indicates wordplay. A themed entry at the bottom. “Dollar” is the clue that matters, the answer BUCK is slang for money. “Bottom” just marks its puzzle position.
Down
1Side note?MEMO????✨ See Why
The clue "Side note?" with a question mark signals wordplay. It's a side-edge theme clue. “Side” marks the clue’s grid location, and “note” refers to a written message. The answer MEMO fits both meanings cleverly.
2Agreed-___UPON????✨ See Why
The phrase "Agreed-___" hints at a commonly used term or expression. The answer "UPON" completes it as "Agreed upon," which is a standard phrase meaning mutually decided or consented to. The structure of the clue points to this familiar idiomatic pairing.
3Prefix with communicationTELE????✨ See Why
The prefix "TELE" originates from Greek, meaning "distant" or "far." Combining it with "communication" forms words like "telecommunication," describing communication over long distances (e.g., via telephone or television). Thus, "TELE" appropriately fits as the prefix for "communication."
4Grow choppersTEETHE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Grow choppers" uses wordplay. "Choppers" is a playful term for teeth, and "grow" suggests the process of developing or cutting teeth, especially in babies. Therefore, the answer "TEETHE" perfectly fits, as it describes the process of growing or cutting new teeth.
5Get off the ground?LEVITATE????????✨ See Why
The clue "Get off the ground?" with a question mark indicates wordplay. "Get off the ground" figuratively describes rising or lifting, and "LEVITATE" directly means to rise or hover above the ground, often implying something seemingly magical or supernatural. Thus, LEVITATE fits perfectly.
6Stressed type: Abbr.ITAL????✨ See Why
The answer "ITAL" refers to italicized text, which is often used in writing to emphasize or "stress" certain words. "Abbr." in the clue signals that the answer is an abbreviation, and "ITAL" is the common shorthand for "italic."
7Singer ReeseDELLA?????✨ See Why
The answer "DELLA" refers to Della Reese, a famous American jazz and gospel singer, actress, and television personality. She was renowned for her powerful voice and career in music and acting, which makes "Singer Reese" a fitting clue. Her prominence makes her a recognizable fit here.
8California college where the writer David Foster Wallace taught EnglishPOMONA??????✨ See Why
POMONA is the correct answer because David Foster Wallace, the acclaimed author, taught English at Pomona College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Claremont, California. Known for its rigorous academics and focus on humanities, Pomona aligns with Wallace's literary contributions and teaching career.
9Unfriendly qualityICINESS???????✨ See Why
The clue "Unfriendly quality" refers to a cold or distant demeanor. "ICINESS" directly conveys coldness, both literally (as in ice) and figuratively (lack of warmth or friendliness). It's a perfect fit for describing an unfriendly or aloof attitude.
10Ave. crossersSTS???✨ See Why
The clue "Ave. crossers" refers to streets, as "Ave." is short for "avenue," which streets (STS) intersect or cross. This abbreviation-focused clue aligns with the common format of streets crossing avenues in city layouts. Hence, the answer is STS.
11Lowly sortTOAD????✨ See Why
The term "lowly sort" suggests someone or something considered humble or insignificant. A toad fits this description metaphorically, as it's often stereotyped as an unattractive or undesirable creature, making it a fitting answer for this clue.
12Redheaded boy of 1960s TVOPIE????✨ See Why
The answer is OPIE because Opie Taylor was a redheaded boy in the 1960s TV series The Andy Griffith Show. Played by Ron Howard, Opie is Sheriff Andy Taylor's son, making him a well-known character from that era, matching the clue perfectly.
13Side arm?LIMB????✨ See Why
The clue "Side arm?" ends with a question mark, signaling a pun or wordplay. On the grid’s side, this themer uses “side” to indicate position. “Arm” is the clue, leading to LIMB, a body part, not a weapon.
21Parts of eyeglass framesRIMS????✨ See Why
The solution "RIMS" refers to the outer parts of eyeglass frames that encircle and hold the lenses in place. This term specifically describes the structural component of frames that supports and houses the lenses, making it a precise answer to the clue "Parts of eyeglass frames."
22First magazine to feature Steve Jobs on its cover (October 1981)INC???✨ See Why
The answer "INC" refers to Inc. Magazine, a publication focused on entrepreneurship and business. In October 1981, Inc. became the first magazine to feature Steve Jobs on its cover, recognizing his innovative impact and success with Apple during its early years.
26Elvis's "___ Not You"SHES????✨ See Why
The clue refers to the 1954 Elvis song "She's Not You." The blank in "___ Not You" is filled with "She's," matching the song's title. Quotes in the clue signal a direct lyric or phrase, confirming that "SHES" is the correct answer.
27Side plank?BOARD?????✨ See Why
The clue "Side plank?" uses wordplay. Another side-themer. “Side” flags its position on the puzzle’s edge. “Plank” is the key definition, with BOARD as the correct fill.
28Parts of heartsATRIA?????✨ See Why
The answer ATRIA refers to the plural of atrium, which are the two upper chambers of the heart in human anatomy. They receive blood entering the heart, making them literal "parts of hearts." This clue draws on knowledge of heart anatomy for the solution.
29Like snakesSCALY?????✨ See Why
The solution "SCALY" fits the clue "Like snakes" because snakes are reptiles covered in scales, which protect their bodies and aid in movement. The word directly describes this defining characteristic of snakes, making it a precise and logical answer.
30Mustachioed "Simpsons" characterNED???✨ See Why
The answer is NED, referring to Ned Flanders, a character on The Simpsons. Known for his prominent mustache, Ned is the Simpson family's cheerful, devoutly Christian neighbor, making his iconic facial hair and kind demeanor integral to his recognition in this clue.
32007, for oneAGENT?????✨ See Why
The clue "007, for one" refers to the famous fictional character James Bond, whose codename is "007." James Bond works as a secret AGENT for MI6, the British Secret Intelligence Service. Thus, the answer "AGENT" fits perfectly.
33JeopardyPERIL?????✨ See Why
The clue "Jeopardy" directly refers to a synonym for danger or risk, which is the word "PERIL." Jeopardy and peril are interchangeable in meaning, both denoting a state of being in harm's way or exposed to danger. This is a straightforward definition-based clue.
34Side dish?PLATE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Side dish?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. A themed clue from the puzzle’s side. Don’t look for mashed potatoes, “dish” leads to PLATE, with “side” pointing only to the clue’s location.
37Family-friendly ratingsPGS???✨ See Why
The answer "PGS" refers to "PG" movie ratings, which stand for "Parental Guidance Suggested." These are family-friendly ratings given by the Motion Picture Association for content suitable for children but may require some parental discretion. The plural "PGs" implies multiple family-friendly ratings across movies.
40Onetime alternative to VHSBETA????✨ See Why
BETA refers to Betamax, a videotape format developed by Sony in the 1970s, which directly competed with VHS (Video Home System). Both were popular for recording and playing videos, but VHS eventually dominated the market, making Betamax a discontinued, "onetime" alternative to VHS.
42Gate infoETA???✨ See Why
The clue "Gate info" refers to information often displayed at airport gates. "ETA" stands for "Estimated Time of Arrival," a common term used to indicate when a flight is expected to reach its destination, making it relevant and fitting for this context.
43Comic book hero whose secret identity is Conner KentSUPERBOY????????✨ See Why
The answer is SUPERBOY because Conner Kent is the secret identity of the comic book character known as Superboy in the DC Comics universe. He is a younger version of Superman, created as a clone combining Superman and Lex Luthor's DNA.
46Symbol of contrasting principlesYINYANG???????✨ See Why
The symbol YINYANG represents dualistic and contrasting principles, such as light and dark, or good and bad, that together create balance and harmony. It is a direct emblem of opposing yet interconnected forces, making it apt for the clue "Symbol of contrasting principles."
48Get out of the starting gate fastBOLT????✨ See Why
The answer "BOLT" fits because to "bolt" means to move suddenly and quickly, much like starting a race at high speed, as one would when "getting out of the starting gate fast." It captures the idea of an immediate, rapid action.
51BreadMOOLAH??????✨ See Why
The clue "Bread" is a playful, slang-based term. "Bread" is often used informally to refer to money, and "MOOLAH" is a similarly informal/slang term for money. Therefore, the answer "MOOLAH" fits perfectly.
52End of a professor's addressEDU???✨ See Why
The answer "EDU" refers to the top-level domain used by educational institutions in website addresses, such as those for universities where professors work. A professor's email or webpage often ends in ".edu," making it the "end" of their online address.
541970s space stationSKYLAB??????✨ See Why
The answer "SKYLAB" refers to the United States' first space station, which was launched and operated by NASA in the 1970s (1973-1979). It orbited Earth, hosting astronaut crews for scientific research and marking a significant milestone in space exploration during that era.
56"J. ___" (2011 Clint Eastwood biopic)EDGAR?????✨ See Why
The 2011 Clint Eastwood biopic "J. Edgar" focuses on the life of J. Edgar Hoover, the first director of the FBI. The clue "J. ___" directly points to his name, and "Edgar" completes it as the movie's title.
58Side kick?PUNT????✨ See Why
The clue "Side kick?" uses a pun. This side-located theme clue riffs on “kick,” not a superhero buddy. The answer PUNT is a type of kick, tying back to the real definition.
59GrowlGNAR????✨ See Why
The answer "GNAR" is a synonym for "growl," particularly describing a low, snarling sound often made by animals. It’s a less common but valid word for such a noise, fitting the crossword clue’s concise nature.
60River under the Ponte VecchioARNO????✨ See Why
The Ponte Vecchio is a historic bridge in Florence, Italy. The Arno River flows beneath it, making ARNO the correct answer. Since the clue references the location directly, knowledge of Florence and its famous bridge-river pairing leads to this solution.
62Itty bitIOTA????✨ See Why
"Itty bit" refers to something extremely small, and "IOTA" is often used to mean a tiny or minuscule amount. The word originates from the Greek alphabet (the smallest letter, iota), making it a fitting synonym for the clue's meaning.
63Prego rivalRAGU????✨ See Why
The clue "Prego rival" refers to two competing brands of pasta sauce. Prego and RAGU are both well-known sauces commonly found in grocery stores, making RAGU the correct answer as a direct competitor to Prego in the pasta sauce market.
64Guinness of "Star Wars"ALEC????✨ See Why
The answer is ALEC because Alec Guinness was the actor who famously portrayed Obi-Wan Kenobi in the original Star Wars trilogy. The clue directly references his last name, linking it to his first name. This straightforward clue relies on familiarity with the actor's name and role.
65Side job?TASK????✨ See Why
The clue “Side job?” with a question mark signals wordplay. A themer on the grid’s side. “Side” plays no part in the meaning; “job” is the clue, and TASK is the straightforward answer.
67French 101 word that sounds like a letter of the alphabetEAU???✨ See Why
The clue specifies a "French 101 word," meaning a basic French term, and the phrase "sounds like a letter" indicates wordplay. In French, "EAU" means "water" and is pronounced like the English letter "O." Hence, EAU fits both the linguistic and phonetic requirements of the clue.
Solving yesterday's NYT Crossword? Reveal letters one by one, uncover the entire puzzle, or click clues to reveal their answers. No matter how you solve it, this tool offers just the right help to unblock or finish the NYT Crossword!
This clever Wednesday puzzle by Desirée Penner and Jeff Sinnock plays with position and language in a delightful way. The gimmick is all about misdirection: clues on the EDGES of the grid contain words like “top,” “bottom,” and “side,” but those words just signal clue placement, not clue meaning. So “Top dog?” (1A) isn’t ALPHA — it’s MUTT. “Side arm?” (13D) isn’t GUN — it’s LIMB. Each theme clue plays on a common phrase while flipping expectations, a classic bit of wordplay that feels fresh thanks to how well it ties into the grid’s physical structure. Smart, symmetrical, and satisfying.
Notable Clues from Yesterday
Some clues just stand out—whether they fit the theme in a cool way, were extra tricky, or just made us laugh. Here are a few from yesterday’s puzzle that caught our attention. Did they stump you too?
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NYT Crossword Themes and Titles
The difficulty of the NYT Crossword evolves throughout the week, and a big part of that progression comes from its use of themes and titles.
Themes
Monday to Wednesday: These puzzles almost always have a theme, with several long answers connected by a common thread. Many include a “revealer” clue—a final answer that explains the theme’s pattern.
Thursday: Still themed, but often with an added twist. Expect trickier mechanics like rebus squares (where multiple letters fit in one box) or unconventional entry rules.
Friday & Saturday: These puzzles are themeless, relying instead on clever wordplay and more challenging vocabulary. Without a theme as a guide, the difficulty increases.
Sunday: The largest puzzle of the week is always themed, and its title offers a hint about the underlying concept.
Titles
Sunday puzzles always have a title that helps solvers identify the theme.
Monday through Saturday puzzles generally don’t have official titles.
While these patterns hold most of the time, creativity and playfulness are at the heart of crossword construction—so expect occasional surprises!
NYT Crossword Puzzle Availability
Online and All Access Subscribers: Daily puzzles are available the evening before their print release.
Weekday and Saturday Puzzles: Available at 10 p.m. EST the previous day.
Sunday Puzzles: Available at 6 p.m. EST on Saturday.
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How To Play
Fill the white squares with letters to form words or phrases that cross each other by solving clues in the Across and Down columns. The puzzles increase in difficulty from Monday to Saturday, with the Sunday puzzle being similar in difficulty to Wednesday or Thursday but larger in size.
Completion and Feedback
Successful Completion: A congratulatory message and music play when the puzzle is correctly solved. If no message appears, there might be an error in the filled squares.
Stars for Completion
Gold Stars: Awarded for puzzles solved consecutively before midnight EST without using Check or Reveal.
Blue Stars: Given for puzzles solved after midnight EST, with a skipped day, or using Check or Reveal.
Keyboard Shortcuts
For computer users, the following shortcuts can enhance gameplay:
Arrow Keys: Navigate in the puzzle.
Spacebar: Clear the current square and advance, toggle between Across and Down.
Backspace/Delete: Remove a letter or word.
Tab: Jump to the next clue.
Shift + Tab: Jump to the previous clue.
Escape: Enter Rebus mode.
App Customization Options
Cursor Movement: Customize cursor settings in the Puzzle Settings menu. Options include skipping filled squares, jumping to the first blank, or the next clue.
Secondary Keyboard: For symbols and numbers, switch by selecting the More button.
Adjust Puzzle Size: Zoom in with a pinch gesture or toggle Clue View.
Modes
Alternate between black (pen) and gray (pencil) letters.
Letter Colors
Black: Default pen mode.
Gray: Pencil mode.
Blue: Letters confirmed with Check.
Timer and Special Elements
Timer: Track your solving time. Pause and resume as needed, or hide the timer in the settings.
Rebus Elements: Enter letters, numbers, or symbols in a single square as part of the puzzle’s challenge or hint.
NYT Crossword Help
The New York Times provides various resources to aid in solving puzzles and improving solving skills.
In-Game Help
Information Icon ("i"): Flashing icon indicates available puzzle hint.
Lifesaver Icon: Offers options to check or reveal a square, an answer, or the entire puzzle.
Clear: Resets the entire puzzle.
Reveal: Displays correct letters for selected square, answer, or entire puzzle.
Check: Validates a square, word, or the entire puzzle; Autocheck option available.
Note: Using Reveal or Check resets the Crossword Streak.
Lady Puzzle Pro Help
Besides this page, meant to help you unblock or finish a puzzle we published a comprehensive guide on how to read the NYT Crossword Clues, which while filled with hints for The Mini puzzle assists you with both the NYT crosswords and the NYT Mini puzzle solving.
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