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 Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023:

Across

What "X" might mark

• The answer is spot.

Root vegetable that can be made into chips

• The answer is taro.

With 2-Down, nickname for an overly swanky person

• The answer is fancy.

"___ boy!"

• The answer is atta.

Something to clean up

• The answer is mess.

Down

Any member of a dropdown list that starts AL, AK, AZ

• The answer is state.

See 6-Across

The answer is pants.

Only known predators of great white sharks

• The answer is orcas.

Squeaky mouse, for a cat

• The answer is toy.

Close relatives, informally

• The answer is fam.