THURSDAY PUZZLE — Before you ask, let me clarify: The headline of this column is not an instruction. Whenever you feel stuck on a crossword puzzle, you should go directly to Wordplay. Do not break down in tears, do not collect $200 — and where did you find that money, anyway? Better give it to me, for safekeeping.

For puzzle lovers who enjoy a fast mental stretch rather than a long, time-consuming crossword, the New York Times Mini Crossword has become a daily go-to. Compared to the traditional full-size puzzle that often requires deep vocabulary and cultural ...

25,269 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?25,269 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?