Puzzle solvers faced unexpected challenges tackling both the daily offering and the popular Mini version for Saturday, April 19th. Notes from the constructor highlighted specific wordplay and themes present in the larger grid, while the Mini featured a controversial clue origin.
The main daily puzzle, crafted by Alex Tomlinson, marked his second contribution to the New York Times. Reviewers noted a dry humor in the wordplay and clever use of smaller entries. The grid included entries that evoked both office settings and science concepts.
Some clues proved particularly tricky for solvers. A work-related clue, asking for a [Post-meeting to-do], disguised the answer ACTION ITEM, employing common corporate language. This type of misdirection slowed down many attempting to complete the grid quickly.
Wordplay also featured prominently in the cluing. The clue [Lightly cut?] led to the answer LASE, referencing the verb form of laser technology used for precise, minimal cutting. Another notable misdirect involved [Walking stick], which turned out to be INSECT, specifically the large North American creature.
Pop culture clues provided further twists. A film franchise clue referencing Ray-Ban sales boosted by a Tom Cruise star led to MIB (Men In Black), not Mission Impossible or Top Gun as some might first guess. Another interesting pairing involved entries related to commuting and travel, such as REVERSE COMMUTE.
The constructor, Alex Tomlinson, shared reflections on his puzzle, noting that making crosswords offers insight into one's past self. He observed what he called an "almost morbid thread" running through the grid, citing entries like NEAR FATAL and GRIEVES alongside EXCONS and EXAM PAPER. For those interested in submitting their own work, the New York Times Crossword has an open submission system. Additional details regarding specific clue analyses can be found in commentary regarding Alex Tomlinson's second puzzle.
For solvers tackling the smaller grid, hints and answers for the NYT Mini Crossword for Saturday, April 19 also became available. This version of the puzzle often serves as a quick test for players.
The Mini included clues such as [Play at a loud volume] (BLARE) and [Totally convinced of] (SOLD ON). Answers for the NYT's The Mini for Saturday, April 19, 2025 covered various topics, from a Jackson 5 song subject (ABCS) to mascara targets (LASHES).
Notably, one Mini clue sparked discussion among solvers and commentators. The clue, referencing a "Virtual assistant with the gift of gab," was explicitly stated to have been written by the AI system CHATGPT itself. This prompted reflection on the use of artificial intelligence in puzzle creation, especially given ongoing legal actions between The New York Times and the AI system's developers.