The LA Times' Crossword and Mini Crossword are two of the most challenging puzzles you can solve today. But with our answers, it's way too easy!

So, if you're working on today's Mini on Friday, January 2, 2026, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!