New York Times publishes Mini Crossword and Strands puzzle answers for July 2026

The New York Times released the solution guide for its Mini Crossword on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Key answers included the internet shorthand TLDR, the French wine region LOIRE, the productivity term INBOX (paired with ZERO for “inbox zero”), and the acronym ASAP. The guide also provided hints for each clue and tips for solving the five‑by‑five grid.

On July 15 and 16, 2026, the Times also posted answers for its daily Strands game. The July 15 theme was “rose‑colored glasses,” with the spangram “PIE IN THE SKY” linking words such as QUIXOTIC, ROMANTIC, IDEALISTIC and IMPRACTICAL. The July 16 puzzle used a “rerouting” theme, featuring words like ZIGZAG, DEVIATE and the spangram “CHANGE COURSE.” Both sets of hints explain the themes, word lists and spangram placement.