The New York Times Mini Crossword is back, and today’s puzzle is a longer one than usual. If you’re here, chances are you’ve hit a wall somewhere in the grid. That’s what we’re for. Below are all the clues and answers for May 2’s Mini Crossword, so you can either power through the remaining blanks or just grab what you need and keep moving.
The Across Clues
1A: Person who likes things totally authentic, or not at all Answer: PURIST
This one captures two opposite personality types with a single word, which is clever if you think about it. A purist either wants everything genuine or nothing at all.
8A: Chance for one’s kids to watch shows, perhaps Answer: TVTIME
A straightforward clue about parenting and screen time. Most of us know this one well.
10A: Video game with falling pieces Answer: TETRIS
The classic that’s been around since 1984. If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, this is burned into your brain.
13A: Dance fad of the mid-2010s that was paired with the “Whip” Answer: NAENAE
Remember when everyone was doing this dance? The Nae Nae paired with the Whip was absolutely inescapable for a moment there.
The Down Clues
2D: Likes : Facebook :: ___ : Reddit Answer: UPVOTES
A nice analogy clue. While Facebook uses “Likes,” Reddit uses “Upvotes” as its engagement metric. The logic is straightforward once you see it.
4D: The “A,” “O” or “C” of A.O.C. Answer: INITIAL
This refers to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s initials, which became shorthand for the congresswoman herself. The clue is asking for what each letter represents, so “Initial” is the answer.
5D: ___ Altman, C.E.O. of 7-Across Answer: SAM
Sam Altman leads OpenAI, which connects to the Technology sector. This is a more current reference that might trip up anyone not following recent corporate leadership.
6D: Item of attire that might have a Windsor knot Answer: TIE
The Windsor knot is one of the most common ways to tie a necktie. Classic crossword territory.
Why Today’s Puzzle Felt Harder
The longer format threw some people off today. The clues themselves aren’t particularly difficult, but the extra real estate means more opportunities to second-guess yourself. That Sam Altman reference also shows the NYT isn’t afraid to dip into current events, which can leave some solvers scratching their heads.
If you’re looking to improve your solving speed, check out our guide on Mini Crossword tips and tricks. The key is pattern recognition and confidence in your answers, even when you’re not 100% sure.
Looking for more puzzles? The NYT has you covered with Wordle, Strands, and Connections releasing daily. It’s worth asking yourself whether solving these puzzles together as a ritual is what keeps you coming back, or if it’s the satisfaction of cracking the code alone.
