When Does the Mini Crossword Reset? Your Complete Guide

Discover when the NYT Mini Crossword resets daily! Learn how time zones affect the puzzle’s availability, troubleshoot issues, and maintain your solving streak.

When Does the Mini Crossword Reset? Your Complete Guide
When Does the Mini Crossword Reset? Your Complete Guide

If you’re a fan of the New York Times’ Mini Crossword, you’ve likely wondered, “When does the Mini Crossword reset?” This bite-sized puzzle is a daily obsession for millions, offering a quick yet satisfying challenge. But missing the reset time can leave you staring at yesterday’s completed grid. In this guide, we’ll answer the burning question about the Mini Crossword reset schedule, explain how time zones affect availability, and share tips to never miss a new puzzle.

What Is the NYT Mini Crossword?

Before diving into reset times, let’s clarify what sets the Mini Crossword apart. Introduced by The New York Times in 2014, this puzzle condenses the traditional crossword experience into a 5x5 grid. Clues are simpler, and solving it typically takes just 1–2 minutes. It’s designed for on-the-go play, accessible via the NYT Crossword app or the NYT Games website.

The Mini resets daily, meaning a fresh puzzle arrives at the same time every 24 hours. Unlike the larger NYT Crossword (which varies in difficulty throughout the week), the Mini stays breezy, making it perfect for daily streaks and competitive solving among friends.

Why Knowing the Reset Time Matters

For avid players, the Mini Crossword reset time is critical for:

  • Maintaining streaks: Many players aim for consecutive daily solves.

  • Competing with others: Friends or online communities often compare solve times.

  • Consistency: Building a routine around the puzzle’s availability.

Missing the reset can disrupt these goals, so let’s break down the schedule.

When Does the Mini Crossword Reset?

The NYT Mini Crossword resets daily at midnight Eastern Time (ET). This means a new puzzle becomes available at 12:00 AM ET, regardless of your location. However, your local time will differ based on your time zone:

Time Zone Reset Time
Eastern Time (ET) 12:00 AM
Central Time (CT) 11:00 PM (previous day)
Mountain Time (MT) 10:00 PM (previous day)
Pacific Time (PT) 9:00 PM (previous day)

For international players:

  • UK (GMT): 5:00 AM

  • Central Europe (CET): 6:00 AM

  • Australia (AEST): 2:00 PM

The reset aligns with the NYT’s other games, including the main Crossword and Wordle.

Time Zone Troubleshooting

If your puzzle isn’t refreshing as expected, consider these factors:

1. Device Clock Settings

The NYT app uses your device’s time zone to display puzzles. If your phone or computer is set to the wrong region, the Mini Crossword may appear to reset at odd hours. To fix this:

  • Update your device’s time zone in settings.

  • Ensure “Set Automatically” is enabled (for smartphones).

2. App vs. Browser Differences

  • NYT Crossword App: Puzzles reset based on ET but display according to your local time.

  • Web Browser: Logging into the NYT Games site shows the reset based on ET, regardless of your location.

3. Daylight Saving Time

When clocks shift forward or back, reset times adjust automatically. No action is needed unless your device fails to update.

What If the Mini Crossword Doesn’t Reset?

While rare, technical glitches can delay the puzzle. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

  1. Refresh the App or Page: Close and reopen the app or reload the NYT Games site.

  2. Check for Updates: Ensure your NYT app is updated to the latest version.

  3. Clear Cache: Stored data might cause display issues (Settings > Apps > NYT > Clear Cache).

  4. Reach Out to Support: If problems persist, contact NYT Games help.

Pro Tips for Daily Mini Crossword Players

  1. Set a Reminder: Use your phone’s alarm to notify you 5 minutes before reset time.

  2. Sync with Friends: Challenge others to solve the puzzle right at reset for friendly competition.

  3. Track Your Stats: The NYT app records your solve times and streaks—aim for personal bests!

Why the Reset Time Stays Consistent

The NYT keeps its games on a strict schedule to foster daily engagement. Unlike social media apps that update content algorithmically, the Mini Crossword’s predictability helps users build habits. This consistency is key to its popularity, especially among commuters and morning routine enthusiasts.

FAQs About the Mini Crossword Reset

Q: Can I play yesterday’s puzzle after the reset?
A: Yes! Past puzzles are accessible via the “Archive” tab in the app or website.

Q: Does the Mini Crossword ever reset earlier on weekends?
A: No. The reset remains midnight ET daily, including weekends and holidays.

Q: Why does my app show two puzzles at once sometimes?
A: This occurs during time zone transitions (e.g., traveling). The app will adjust within 24 hours.

Conclusion: Never Miss a Mini Crossword Again

Knowing that the Mini Crossword resets at midnight ET—and adjusting for your time zone—ensures you’ll always have a fresh puzzle waiting. Whether you’re chasing streaks or just enjoy a daily brain teaser, this schedule keeps the game fair and fun for everyone.

Ready to test your skills? Set that reminder, sync your clock, and let the solving begin.

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