Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

The day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections , Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword.

The yellow grouping is considered to be the most straightforward.