The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, Oct. 15, 2023:

Across

Protective ring around a castle

• The answer is Moat.

"Cogito, ___ sum"

• The answer is Ergo.

"Huh, that's strange ..."

The answer is Weird.

Roughly

• The answer is Or so.

Like sloths and turtles

• The answer is Slow.

Down

Kitten's quiet call

• The answer is Mew.

Creme-filled cookies

The answer is Oreos.

"I'm also just ___, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her" (classic rom-com line)

• The answer is A Girl.

Middle part of the body

• The answer is Torso.

Wall Street average, with "the"

• The answer is Dow.