March 31, 2026 NYT Mini Crossword Hints and Answers

Stuck on today’s Mini Crossword? Here are all the hints and answers you need to solve the March 31, 2026 puzzle.

What Is the NYT Mini Crossword?

The NYT Mini Crossword is a compact version of the classic New York Times crossword puzzle. It features a 5×5 grid with simpler clues designed to be solved quickly—usually in just a few minutes. The Mini is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a fast mental challenge.

Across Clues and Answers

1 Across: “Paradise” or “Lost”

Answer: SHOW
Definition: A television program or theatrical performance.

5 Across: Hawaiian island with the famous Road to Hana

Answer: MAUI
Definition: The second-largest Hawaiian island, known for its scenic drives and beaches.

6 Across: ___Zeneca (pharma company)

Answer: ASTRA
Definition: A British-Swedish pharmaceutical company (AstraZeneca).

8 Across: “Stainless” metal

Answer: STEEL
Definition: A durable alloy of iron and carbon, resistant to rust.

9 Across: One half of a centaur

Answer: HORSE
Definition: The lower half of a centaur’s body.

Down Clues and Answers

1 Down: Massive success

Answer: SMASH
Definition: A huge hit or overwhelming success.

2 Down: Must

Answer: HASTO
Definition: A contraction of “has to,” meaning required or necessary.

3 Down: ___ boroughs (term for the non-Manhattan parts of New York City)

Answer: OUTER
Definition: Refers to the four other NYC boroughs outside Manhattan (Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island).

4 Down: Electrician’s specialty

Answer: WIRES
Definition: Conductors used to transmit electricity.

7 Down: Bar beverage

Answer: ALE
Definition: A type of beer brewed with top-fermenting yeast.

More Daily Puzzle Help

Looking for other puzzle solutions? Check out these recent guides:

Or try these puzzles from the same date:

Play the NYT Mini Crossword daily for a quick and fun brain workout!

Shahid Maqsood

Shahid Maqsood is a digital entrepreneur and SEO specialist focused on building engaging web experiences. He is the creator of DotWordle, combining creativity with smart, user-friendly design.