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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.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Sunday, April 13, 2025:

AcrossState sch. founded by Thomas Jefferson

• The answer is UVA.

Flower containers

• The answer is Pots.

"Crib" or "pad," for "house"

• The answer is Slang.

Pants, informally

• The answer is Trou.

Company nicknamed "Big Blue"

• The answer is IBM.

DownCompany nicknamed "Big Brown"

• The answer is UPS.

What "V" stands for on a battery

• The answer is Volt.

Big name in 1980s arcade games

• The answer is Atari.

Stuck-up sort

• The answer is Snob.

Big Red, e.g.

• The answer is Gum.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

The Trump administration will take Meta to court this week, continuing an aggressive effort to rein in the power of the biggest tech companies. Here’s what to know.

On Monday, Meta will face off against the federal government in a landmark antitrust trial over claims that it illegally squashed competition by buying Instagram and WhatsApp.

TL;DR: Upgrade to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $14.97 (regularly $199) and enjoy enhanced security, productivity features, and the AI-powered Copilot assistant.​

In the ever-evolving world of technology, keeping your operating system current is essential for optimal performance and security. For a limited time, you can upgrade to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $14.97, a significant reduction from its regular price of $199.​

Why upgrade to Windows 11 Pro?

Windows 11 Pro offers a sleek and user-friendly interface designed to enhance your computing experience. Features like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops allow for efficient multitasking and enable you to organize your workspace with ease. The redesigned Start menu provides quick access to your apps and documents, streamlining your workflow.​

Security is a top priority with Windows 11 Pro. The operating system includes advanced features such as BitLocker encryption and Windows Information Protection, providing robust protection against unauthorized access and data breaches. These tools are especially beneficial for professionals handling sensitive information.​

Integrated AI and better graphics

One of the standout additions is Windows Copilot, an AI-powered assistant integrated into the system. Copilot assists with tasks like answering queries, generating images, summarizing web pages, and even planning your next trip, streamlining your workflow and boosting productivity.​

Gamers and creative professionals will appreciate the inclusion of DirectX 12 Ultimate, which delivers enhanced graphics and immersive experiences. Additionally, features like Auto HDR improve color and contrast in games, providing a more vibrant visual experience.​

Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro at this price point offers an affordable way to enhance your PC's functionality, security, and overall performance.​

You can pick up Windows 11 Pro for just $14.97 (reg. $199) through April 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT only.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $14.97
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TL;DR: Keep a scanner in your pocket at all times with this lifetime subscription to SwiftScan VIP for $41.99 (reg. $199) with code TAKE30 now through April 27.

If you need to safeguard an important document, digitizing it is the way to go. Unfortunately, scanners are hard to come by these days. That's why SwiftScan VIP is the perfect app to transform your smartphone or tablet into a powerful scanning tool.

SwiftScanVIP is a mobile scanning app that makes digitizing documents easier than ever. And right now, a lifetime subscription is only $41.99 with the code TAKE30 through April 27. 

Keep a scanner on hand for life

SwiftScan instantly turns your smartphone or tablet’s camera into a portable, on-demand scanner. All you have to do is open the app and hold your device above the document. It automatically detects edges and crops the page for you.

Once you scan, you can enhance the quality of the document with SwiftScan's color filters, auto-optimization, and blur reduction features. Then, choose to save it as a PDF or JPG. 

Need to scan more than one page? That's no problem; SwiftScan can also combine multiple pages into a single document. 

After scanning, SwiftScan helps you get your documents where they need to go. Choose to send them as an email or a fax or upload them to the cloud storage service of your choice. SwiftScan automatically organizes your scans into folders, making them easily searchable with OCR technology for quick access later.

Aside from helping with scans, SwiftScan can also tackle PDF editing. You can sign, annotate, or even redact information from these frustrating file formats right in the app. 

Enjoy easy scanning access for life with SwiftScanVIP, now only $41.99 (reg. $199) with code TAKE30 through April 27.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Maple Media SwiftScan VIP: Lifetime Subscription $41.99
$199.99 Save $158 Get Deal

TL;DR: Stay connected more conveniently with the NanoPhone, a miniaturized smartphone packed with plenty of features now available for $89.97 (reg. $199) through April 27.

Say goodbye to overwhelming screens and hello to a simplified, smarter way to stay connected.

The NanoPhone is truly pocket-sized, measuring around the size of a credit card while still offering all the perks of your usual smartphone. And you can bring one home for a much smaller price at just $89.97 (reg. $199) now through April 27. 

This mini smartphone also comes with a mini price

Whether you’re looking to cut down on screen time or just need a phone that fits in your pocket without the bulk, the NanoPhone is here to change the game. 

The NanoPhone packs all the perks of your usual smartphone — a clear, responsive touchscreen, access to your favorite apps, and a built-in camera — in a tiny format. There's no additional data plan required; you can insert your current SIM card, and it should work with your existing 4G carrier.

Both front and rear cameras let you snap photos and video chat, while Bluetooth capabilities let it connect to wireless headphones or a smartwatch for seamless integration. 

Don't assume a smaller phone means a smaller battery life. The NanoPhone is ready to last all day long. Bring it along when you don't want to be weighed down by your usual smartphone, or keep it as an emergency backup phone and tuck it somewhere safe. 

Bring home a NanoPhone for just $89.97 (reg. $199.99) now through April 27 with no coupon needed.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Mutant Design Lab NanoPhone - A Miniaturized Smartphone Packed with Mega Features! $89.97
$199.99 Save $110.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: Enjoy access to multiple AI models in one easy spot with 1min.AI, now only $79.97 for an Advanced Business Plan lifetimes subscription (reg. $540) through April 30.

Curious about using AI to help with work tasks but aren't sure where to start? Let 1min.AI serve as your one-stop shop. This handy platform combines several popular AI models — including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Midjourney — into one app, letting you test out their unique features without hopping between services.

Right now, a lifetime subscription to the 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan can be yours for just $79.97 (reg. $540) through April 30. 

AI doesn't have to be overwhelming

1min.AI consolidates popular AI platforms into one platform, offering an easy way to create images, generate writing, and accomplish many creative tasks in seconds. Once it's done, just give it a human once-over, and it will be good to go.

Ask questions and get informative answers thanks to AI models from GoogleAI and MetaAI. Text-based tasks are powered by GPT-5, while Gemini and Mistral are on hand to create AI-generated images. In fact, the image below was made by 1min.AI itself.

This Advanced Business Plan includes 4,000,000 monthly credits — enough to generate up to 1,112,500 words, create 1,186 images, upscale 741 photos, remove backgrounds from 74 images, transcribe more than 14,000 seconds of audio, and produce up to 37 videos each month.

This plan also supports tasks like SEO research, with up to 5,933 keywords available monthly. And if you're in need of more credits, you can earn up to 450,000 bonus credits per month by visiting the app, leaving a review, or referring a friend.

You'll receive unlimited access to the prompt library, brand voice options, storage, and collaboration features for up to 20 team members with the Advanced Business Plan, making it a great option for small businesses. 

If you're looking for an easy way to start using the power of AI, 1min.AI is a great tool. 

Secure a lifetime subscription to 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan for just $79.97 (reg. $540) through April 30.

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Opens in a new window Credit: 1min.AI 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan Lifetime Subscription $79.97
$540 Save $460.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get a lifetime subscription to BitMar’s content finder for $14.99 this through 27 April with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. $150).

Here’s a challenge: cut the cord with your streaming services. Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, all of them. You’re likely paying hundreds each year in subscription fees and, chances are, you still can’t find the one movie you want to watch on any of them.

All of these reasons are probably why so many people are turning to BitMar, a streaming service alternative. You know how you can find some free movies or TV shows available online if you dig hard enough? This powerful search engine does that for you. And, for a limited time, you can get it for $14.99 with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. $150).

Wait…how does it work?

BitMar is powered by the Bing search engine, but it only has eyes for free streaming content. You’ll use a far more user-friendly interface to plug in a channel, genre, actor, or a specific movie or TV show you have in mind, then this content aggregator scours the web to find it.

Is it legal? Yes. BitMar is fully compliant with copyright laws — and it’s simply locating content already available on the web.

If you’re wondering why you wouldn’t just spend the time searching for it yourself, that’s the reason right there — it saves you time. BitMar also filters out the garbage to leave you with high-quality, ad-free content.

Enjoy no subscription streaming with a BitMar lifetime subscription at $14.99 with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. $150).

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If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A billiards shot

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

MASSE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A representative.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 13, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

PROXY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Used to style hair.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 13 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 13, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

BRUSH

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A small glass dish.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 13 Hurdle Word 4 answer

PETRI

Final Hurdle hint

Quick.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

RAPID

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

TL;DR: Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The early stages of the 2025 MotoGP season are being dominated by the Márquez brothers, who sit in first and second place in the standings. There is a lot still to be decided however, with a host of talented riders following closely behind. The likes of Bagnaia will be looking to cut their lead this weekend in Qatar.

If you're interested in watching the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar?

The MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar takes place at the Lusail International Circuit. The 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar race starts at 1 p.m. ET on April 13.

How to watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free

Every 2025 MotoGP race is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.

ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to access ServusTV from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ServusTV by following this simple process:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria

4. Connect to ServusTV

5. Watch MotoGP for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access MotoGP live streams without fully committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live streaming is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for MotoGP?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking ServusTV, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Austria

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free with ExpressVPN.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 13 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 13 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Orange door hinge

The words are related like Orange and Door Hinge.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words rhyme with different colors, even if they look like they don't.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is ColorRhymes.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for April 13

• Hello

• Queen

• Spread

• Height

• Flew

• Plaque

• Pilot

• ColorRhymes

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 13 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: To take what's not yours

• Green: Marked by a teacher

• Blue: Used in Microsoft Word

• Purple: The second half is the same

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Steal

• Green: Attendance status

• Blue: Font-modifying words

• Purple: ___Berry

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #671 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Steal: NICK, PINCH, POCKET, SWIPE

• Attendance status: ABSENT, EXCUSED, LATE, PRESENT

• Font-modifying words: GOTHIC, ROMAN, SANS, TYPEWRITER

• ___Berry: CAPER, ELDER, GOOSE, LOGAN

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 13

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for April 13 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 13, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To chuckle.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter L.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

LAUGH.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 13

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

A long list of electronic products got a reprieve for now from at least some of the levies on China, which had been expected to take a toll on tech giants like Apple.

The specifics of President Donald Trump's tariffs have changed quite a bit over the past few days. Now, it looks like a whole host of electronics, including most smartphones, will be excluded from the new tariffs.

According to guidelines released Friday from Customs and Border Protection, there are 20 products that are exempt from the 125 percent tariff imposed on Chinese imports and also the updated 10 percent baseline tariff on imports from other countries. The updated guidance had nothing to say about the current 20 percent tariff on Chinese goods. The exempt products include smartphones, computers, semiconductors, and flat-panel display modules. China, meanwhile, raised tariffs on U.S. imports by 125%.

SEE ALSO: Updating: All the tariff price increases in the tech world so far

White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai told CNBC that "President Trump has made it clear America cannot rely on China to manufacture critical technologies such as semiconductors, chips, smartphones, and laptops."

"At the direction of the President, these companies are hustling to onshore their manufacturing in the United States as soon as possible," Desai said in the statement.

CNBC reported earlier this week that people panic-bought iPhones in response to the proposed 125 percent tariffs earlier this month, fearing they would be priced out of the tech once tariffs were put in place. Apple was anticipating major difficulties in response. This new tariff drop might be good news for Apple — at least for now.

TikTok wants me to have a dinner party, but the year is 2025, and I'm not a billionaire.

It could be that it's spring, the ultimate dinner party season, but being fed constant streams of dinner party content on TikTok during the economic thrill that is April 2025 seems — at the minimum — worth consideration. Even the term "dinner party" eludes a sort of quiet luxury; no one is encouraging us to have potlucks or reinventing picnics a la, the cottage core trend of 2018, despite its enduring presence.

SEE ALSO: Recession indicators are everywhere online — even if we’re not actually in one

Instead, I open the app and am bombarded with overflowing tablescapes, monumental floral arrangements, beautiful ceramic plates adorned with scalloped edges, and so many tapered candles.

Is this the clinking of glasses at your favorite influencer's Lower East Side dinner party — the sound of a true recession indicator —or just that of a new hot status symbol entering the villa?

Let them eat cake

Food has always been, and likely always will be a status symbol. In the 18th century, for instance, pineapples were a sign of wealth because they were so difficult for people to get their hands on. And in the 19th century, only the wealthiest of folks had celery in their homes. Rich people cornered the market of dinner parties during the Victorian era, not only because food was so expensive but also because it provided the crucial ability for people to maintain social connections and depended upon people having all day to prepare to host such an event — an ability sequestered to the elite who didn't have to go to work or do manual labor.

Food is an indicator of wealth in 2025, as well.

Fresh food has become a status symbol and the ultimate indicator of wealth as groceries become increasingly expensive. Vogue Business pointed out that "hotspots" like viral TikTok bakeries or Erewhon's $19 strawberry "have evolved into cultural status symbols much like streetwear."

Hailey Bieber cradled an armful of colorful carrots, bananas, and tomatoes tumbling out of a brown bag in a new ad (Read: "Who cares if the carrots fall to the pavement! I'm rich!") Tradwifes are offering up a dystopian-level look at their unattainable lifestyle through making food from scratch, ingredients and time abound. Lori Harvey hosted a dinner party for her birthday. Loewe, Rachel Antonoff, Lisa Says Gah and other designers are putting pasta or cocktail shrimp or tomatoes on every other shirt, skirt, and bag they sell.

Ultimately, as Bon Appetit writer Megan Wahn wrote, "Food and clothing used to be essentials for survival — now they’ve come together as things to enjoy. They're objects of spectacle."

"[Groceries-as-luxury] is definitely a post-2020 sentiment, and as we’re halfway in the decade, it’s no surprise to see it permeate into the mainstream,” Andrea Hernández, the author of the food and beverage trends newsletter Snaxshot, told Fast Company. "Food scarcity and grocery prices skyrocketing is real, and our generation made fancy smoothies a form of affordable affluence. It’s Gen Z’s 'avocado toast trope.'"

So, is it a recession indicator that instead of bragging about expensive homes and clothes, we're zoning in on our grocery hauls? And, to take that a step further, is it an indicator of further economic downturn that the most palatable way to show off your wads of cash is by feeding your friends, filling the middle of your table with tall candles and a bunch of greenery, and posting it to TikTok?

The rise of dinner parties likely isn't a true recession indicator in the same way that a decrease in real GDP or high unemployment would be, but cultural cues aren't to be ignored. After all, in 2025, the difference between the wealthy and the poor could be the ability to buy eggs. So what better way to show off your money than to flaunt your food?

A long list of electronic products got a reprieve for now from at least some of the levies on China, which had been expected to take a toll on tech giants like Apple.

In a move unsurprising to those following Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's political affiliations, the tech billionaire has added former Trump advisor Dina Powell McCormick to its board, further cementing Zuckerberg's alliance with the Republican president.

According to Axios, which first reported McCormick's placement, the move serves two purposes: Meta's board's expansion into more global business experts and its attempts to win political favor with the current administration. According to a Meta press release, McCormick spent 16 years in leadership roles at Goldman Sachs and is now the vice chair, president, and head of global client services at BDT & MSD Partners.

SEE ALSO: Mark Zuckerberg doubles down on Meta's submission to Trump

She was President Donald Trump's deputy national security adviser in 2017 and the assistant secretary of state for State Secretary Condoleezza Rice under President George W. Bush. McCormick's husband is a Republican senator from Pennsylvania.

"I'm excited to bring my experience in finance, government, and economic development to support the people and entrepreneurs who use Meta's services," McCormick said in a press release.

In the same press release, Meta also announced that Patrick Collison, the co-founder and CEO of Stripe who used to be part of Meta's Advisory Group, will join the board.

"Patrick and Dina bring a lot of experience supporting businesses and entrepreneurs to our board. Patrick is deeply committed to expanding economic opportunity, and Dina has a long career advocating for economic development and supporting entrepreneurs. Their perspective will be extremely valuable to businesses that rely on our services to grow," Zuckerberg said in the press release.

This is part of ongoing moves that align Meta and Zuckerberg with the Trump administration, particularly as an ongoing antitrust fight heats up. Over the past few months, Meta added UFC CEO and Trump ally Dana White, lifted prohibitions against some hate speech on its platforms, got rid of fact-checkers in favor of community notes, ended its DEI efforts, and more.

Zuckerberg and other tech executives attended Trump's inauguration, dined at Mar-a-Lago on Thanksgiving Eve, and pledged $1 million to the event.

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.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Saturday, April 12, 2025:

AcrossDo, re, mi, fa, ___, la ...

• The answer is Sol.

Still up in the air, for short

• The answer is TBD.

With 14-Across, "?????"

• The answer is That's.

___ Grande

• The answer is Rio.

Bone connecting the elbow and wrist

• The answer is Ulna.

Things issued by the D.M.V.

• The answer is IDs.

Elaborate hairstyle

• The answer is Coif.

Part of the eye that contains the iris

• The answer is Uvea.

See 7-Across

• The answer is Confusing

"Sure, whatever you say ..."

• The answer is Okay.

24 cans of beer

• The answer is Case.

DownPlaster wall coating

• The answer is Stucco.

"Hey, check it out!"

• The answer is Oh look.

Weather phenomenon that translates to "the girl"

• The answer is La nina.

It's full of questions

• The answer is Trivia.

White House family during the 2020s

• The answer is Bidens.

Medicinal amount

• The answer is Dosage.

Chewy candy

• The answer is Taffy.

Sch. that plays home football games at the L.A. Coliseum

• The answer is USC.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

They're watching you from inside your closet.

The dress you bought for one singular wedding two years ago. The blazer you bought for an interview at a company that's apparently no longer hiring. They taunt you silently every time you push them aside for a monochrome sweatsuit.

This is your sign. Start selling your clothes online.

The side hustle that doesn't require much time, or a special skill

The pandemic closet purge to underconsumption-core pipeline has put a spotlight on the art of effectively getting rid of old stuff.

Chances are, you already have a trash bag in your closet where perfectly nice castoffs go to die — and it's easy to let that bag become a permanent fixture on your to-do list. Whether your items are lightly worn or were never touched after the initial try-on, knowing how to sell them effectively is a slept-on skill.

Being secondhand seller savvy, you'll have a go-to way to earn extra cash for years to come. It'll become a particularly clutch financial cushion as the effects of tariffs loom at both the budget-friendly and luxury ends of the apparel spectrum. People will quickly realize that there's one way to skirt around spiking clothing costs without frantically Googling which clothing brands have factories where: Just buy clothing that's already in circulation.

Not sure where to start? I didn't at first, either. After almost a decade of listing my own stuff and doing a majority of my own shopping from other people's closets, I've poured everything I've learned into a running guide on selling your clothes on the different resale apps, from photo and description tips to shipping hacks to the ins and outs of selling fees.

SEE ALSO: Trump tariff news: iPhones getting snapped up, laptop sales disrupted – what we know

From the seller's perspective, the obvious perk of an online shop is having a go-to way to earn extra cash to cushion against costlier everyday items. Even a profit of $10 here and there could make a weekly grocery bill feel less daunting — a recurring win in this economic hellscape. The best part is that clothes-selling apps are a side hustle that doesn't really require you to clock in. Sure, a few minutes are required at the beginning to post the items, plus a pit stop at the post office when a sold item needs to be mailed. But between that, you're just waiting for the right buyer to scroll past your stuff.

But the buyer's POV says a lot, too: People will be looking for ways to save money where they can, and buying used or refurbished is one way to do that without stopping shopping completely. If an item is already in circulation (i.e., sitting in some person's Mercari shop), it's inherently invulnerable to the tariffs that surge the costs of imported goods.

Will tariffs make clothes more expensive?

If you were a betting person, would you guess that the tags on your current outfit say "Made in the USA" or "Made literally anywhere else"?

Anyone whose gut feeling said the latter is, of course, correct. A 2024 report from the American Apparel & Footwear Association estimated that the U.S. gets 97 percent of its apparel and shoes from other countries, which means that 97 percent of clothes and shoes in the U.S. are going to cost more money to bring in. So yes, it's nearly inevitable that most clothes will be affected by tariffs. For how long, we don't know, and the hike in price will be dependent on the tariff rate tied to the country each garment is coming from.

A big chunk of that 97 percent comes from Asia, including China, whose imports have been saddled with a more than 100 percent tariff rate as of April 9. JSYK, Shein and Temu items ship from China. Trump also moved to close a loophole that previously allowed shipments of low-cost items (like clothes from Shein) to fly under the radar and evade other trade taxes.

SEE ALSO: Nintendo Switch 2 tariff impacts: What we know so far

TL;DR: Retailers whose entire success model is built on the ability to be super cheap are now facing roadblocks that'll make staying cheap much harder. In turn, many shoppers might be forced to wean off of fast fashion and clothing haul mentality.

But we needed to shift away from that whole mess regardless. Fast fashion brands are only able to sell clothing at such low costs because the people making them aren't being paid fairly, with the supply chain often banking on child labor. The constant churning out of low-quality polyester crap also wreaks havoc on the environment. The fast fashion industry is a notorious contributor to landfills and is responsible for nearly 10 percent of global carbon emissions — that's the equivalent of one garbage truck full of clothes being burned or dumped every second. In 2023, Shein alone emitted more carbon dioxide than what four coal power plants combined could emit in a year.

SEE ALSO: 15+ eco-friendly gifts that someone would actually use The thrifting boom proves that people are down to buy used clothes

I've recommended resale apps to friends, and much of their hesitation stemmed from the same place: "No one wants my stuff." But that's not necessarily true. You'd be surprised at what buyers are actively hunting down, especially when prices are cheaper than buying the same exact thing brand new.

The surging popularity of thrifting over the past few years is all the reassurance you should need that people are totally open to wearing previously worn clothes. For those of us who weren't blessed with the time or motivation to scan Goodwill with a fine-tooth comb for hidden gems, online resale platforms are the move. There's a market for the stuff that Plato's Closet or Buffalo Exchange turned down for whatever arbitrary reason.

And contrary to popular belief, you can still have a ton of success selling clothes online even if you have no cool vintage pieces to list. Think of how enticing a gently worn pair of Lululemon leggings listed at 50% off will be now that brand new Lululemon leggings, which already weren't anyone's idea of affordable, will probably get more expensive due to tariffs. A wedding invitee who feels financially burnt out after buying a shower and wedding gift would probably love to buy someone's Princess Polly dress that was also only worn for a single occasion and is now $50 cheaper than market price.

I'll never forget the rush I felt after finding a pair of platform SK8-Hi Vans in my size on Depop after months of seeing "Out of stock" everywhere else. I could not have cared less about the light scuffs. That seller doesn't know it, but her not wanting those random shoes made my life. That's secondhand savviness for you: If it's sold out on the website, it might be quietly floating around on a selling app.

Don't let snobby thrift stores who accept nothing bully you into thinking your wardrobe sucks.

It's easy to rely on Amazon or Asos when a shirt is $10 and shipping is fast and free, but remember that much of what's being sold secondhand is just as affordable. The difference: Buying secondhand takes something that's already in circulation off the market. And let's be real — that weirdly cheap shirt definitely isn't better quality than a shirt that's been worn a few times.

Which is best: Depop, Poshmark, or Mercari?

Each member of the holy trinity gets the job done. In fact, many sellers post on all three to reach a wider audience. But certain types of clothes may perform better on one app or the other, based on the demographics of the user bases keeping each platform afloat.

Poshmark, the OG, has 130 million users versus Depop's 35 million and Mercari's 23 million. The biggest difference between the apps is probably their user bases: Anything popular on TikTok or Instagram will likely do well with Depop's audience (90 percent of users are Gen Z), whereas items targeted toward ages 40 and up might fare better on one of the other two. There are gender differences, too: 70 percent of Poshmark's users identify as women, for example, while 38 percent of Depop's users identify as men.

Depop can be intimidating. Of the big three, it's the app that feels most like social media, and with that comes pressure to curate an aesthetic theme, post consistently, and upkeep the vibe of the shop as a whole. The crowd is simultaneously eclectic yet specific: millennials and Gen Zers who resonate with niche stylistic pockets of internet culture (insert word here-core), follow influencers closely, and appreciate vintage pieces and full outfit styling.

SEE ALSO: The 'boom boom' aesthetic fetishizes wealth in an era of chaos

If you're getting into thrifting or looking to sell from a niche brand, head to Depop first. You'll have better luck selling a recognizable sweater from Todd Snyder or Lisa Says Gah than a generic turtleneck from Zara. (Be sure to use hashtags, including the brand name and phrases people might search, like #plaidpants or #NWT — "new with tags.")

Luckily, Depop's interface is super approachable. The app looks a lot like Instagram — you'll scroll through a feed showing one item at a time from shops you follow. (You can also search by category or switch to the Explore page for a grid of fresh items, which Depop curates as "the best items from our community.")

Poshmark and Mercari are a bit more chaotic. Your feed will be full of updates about new listings, but some will only be *vaguely* similar to things you've looked at before. Their search features get cluttered, too: Poshmark's search bar tends to pull up items that don't quite fit the search terms, and Mercari frequently turns up items that have already sold. You had one job, filters.

The Poshmark community's standards also tend to be a bit looser. Many users are still young and hungry for vintage and designer pieces, but older millennials and members of Gen X might feel more at home here than on Depop. (My mom sometimes gives me items of hers to sell; in those cases, Poshmark is my go-to.) Poshmark also lacks a way to message other users directly. Personally, I don't love having a convo in the comment section, but other users don't seem to mind.

SEE ALSO: I tried 5 Dyson Supersonic dupes that are actually worth the hype

Mercari, for its part, is the place to sell home goods like electronics and decor, new and used. Items from T.J. Maxx and Marshalls that go viral and sell out quickly often end up listed on Mercari — the Rae Dunn and Hello Kitty merch lore runs deep on these virtual shelves. If you have unwanted skincare that you're too lazy to return or unwanted perfume or cologne with just a few sprays used, Mercari also has a big market for stuff like that.

In response to a question about Mercari's target audience on the Mercari subreddit, Reddit user chibidesigns writes: "I’ve had a lot of success selling random things on Mercari. Sold automatic toothbrush heads within 10min of posting, and sold a lot of old electronics wires I had laying around. Clothing moves, but at a slower pace than what I move on Poshmark."

Mercari is still great for fashion resale, though, especially for things like sneakers (think sneakerhead culture), children's clothing, or outerwear. My brother has given me several pairs of his old Air Jordans to sell for him, and most sold quickly on Mercari after gaining little traction on Depop.

Making your listings pop is less work than you think

Starting a successful shop will require some legwork, but follow a few key principles and you'll be good to go. Here's what to focus on.

Start with the background. Consider what you, as a buyer, would need to see to feel comfortable buying clothing from someone. Blindingly artificial lighting or a carpet covered in pet hair don’t exactly prove that the seller takes care of their clothes. A half-assed photo could send the message that you’ll be half-assed with shipping or communication, too.

Assembling a makeshift studio is a good move. It doesn't have to be fancy — think cohesive and presentable, like a nicely decorated corner of your room or a plain wall outside your apartment complex. A uniform look is great, but what really matters is showing that you take pride in the reselling process.

SEE ALSO: How 4 creators use CapCut to edit their TikTok videos

Modeling clothes isn’t a requirement, especially when you're selling something because it doesn't fit. But since returns aren’t very common on resale apps, buyers do appreciate seeing what an item looks like on a person. However, there's no need to drag a friend out for a shoot. The self-timer on your phone can work surprisingly well, but if that makes you feel rushed, a cheap wireless shutter remote and mini tripod will give you more control.

Don't feel like being in front of the camera? There are other ways to take eye-catching photos. Putting an item on a hanger is a stylish alternative, as long as the background is relatively neutral. (Bonus points if all of your photos have a uniform backdrop or theme.) An artsy prop, like a plant in the corner, can add a bit of flare.

Here are some examples of photos I've taken to sell clothes Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

I'm not Depop famous by any stretch, but I have made almost 300 sales. I've settled on posing each garment on a white rug on the same chunk of floor, with my roommate's huge gold floor mirror as a little accent in the corner. For items that are too big or awkward for a floor picture, I hang them on the closet door nearby to keep the vibe as match-y as possible. (On Depop, photos have to be square, so keep that in mind when taking photos. Mercari and Poshmark allow photos to expand to full rectangular size.)

Many users use an actual backdrop (could be a sheet, could be a $17 cloud backdrop with fairy string lights). Others remove the backgrounds on their photos and edit the item onto a fun digital backdrop using a service like Photoshop or Canva Pro.

Such intricate photoshoots aren't absolutely necessary, though, especially on platforms that aren't Depop. Mercari and Poshmark shoppers appreciate practicality, likely just looking for photos that very clearly accentuate the item's color and condition. A blank chunk of hardwood floor was my background for all of those sneakers I was selling. Whatever you do, post more than one photo. The front and back of an article of clothing, close-ups on zippers, necklines, or other small details, the bottoms of shoes — just like you'd probably examine an item by hand in a store before buying, taking shots from multiple angles shows the buyer exactly what they'd be purchasing.

Hit allll the angles. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Here are some other quick tips on creating a successful selling app post:

Lighting can make or break a photo. Natural sunlight captures colors and textures as they appear IRL and can highlight stains or snags that you may have missed. But if natural light isn't available, a setup that mimics natural light will be a godsend. (A 5000K light bulb is a good starting point.) Try a Lume Cube or an adjustable daylight lamp.

In some cases, especially with shoes, turning on flash is a surefire way to highlight any discoloration, scuffs, stains, or creasing.

SEE ALSO: CES 2025: ShiftCam's tiny portable drive is a content creator's dream

Be as descriptive as possible in the description. Though "Black hoodie sz large good condition" is quicker for you to type, it's not exactly helpful for the buyer. Say as much about the item as you can, including how it fits or the feel of the fabric — bullet points are fine if it feels like you're rambling. Past selecting "good" or "excellent" condition in the settings of the listing, I like to tell buyers approximately how many times the item was worn (if I have a general idea). Know the year it came out? Add that. Know the exact name and/or color of the item that a buyer might type into the search bar (i.e., Reformation Gloria dress in "Honeyglow")? Add that.

Be candid about flaws or other quirks, like whether the item fits like a small even if it's tagged as a medium. Duping someone is just a recipe for a bad review, and that'll just hinder your likelihood of making more sales in the future.

Launder your items before selling. Take the time to hang-dry items that can’t go in the dryer, and hand wash delicates that say to do so. (A few drops of Woolite Delicates in the sink will do just fine.) This will help with fading, shrinking, and fabric durability, and could be the difference between “excellent” or “fair” condition.

Be mindful of wrinkles. Even the cutest little photo arrangement can't make ridiculously wrinkly clothes look enticing to buyers, and often makes it impossible to actually see how the garment would lay normally. If one of your items' previous storage situation was being crumpled in a ball for a year, just grow up and iron it, or send it through a dryer's wrinkle release setting.

Basic sewing skills go a long way. SNL fans might remember the skit where Larry-David-as-Bernie-Sanders recommends keeping the little button in the baggie that comes with pants. He's right: An item with a missing button will likely fetch a much lower price. (When you list the item, note that the extra button will be included with the sale. It shows the buyer you're responsible.)

As long as you have a needle and some matching thread, you can replace a button or mend a hole. Taking the burden of repair off the buyer can increase the value (perceived and actual) of what you're selling.

A measuring tape is another staple. Buyers will almost definitely ask for measurements on pants, especially if they're denim. And knowing your own measurements is helpful when hunting for your holy grail vintage Levi's.

SEE ALSO: 4 clever finance tips from online creators

If you’re feeling ambitious, you may want to invest in a sewing machine. This is a must for thrift flip TikTok enthusiasts, but it's also nice to have one on hand for more involved repairs, like replacing a zipper. (It's easy, I swear. Buy a zipper of the same color on Amazon and find a DIY video.) You should still tell buyers about the patch job, but it’s better than dropping the "broken zipper" bomb.

Saving your boxes and mailers will save your ass

Do a lot of online shopping yourself? Reuse that Amazon packaging instead of paying for new mailers. I've received orders in old Sephora boxes and Target mailers and have never minded, and I do the same myself (within reason — skip the tattered ones). Many buyers purchase secondhand because they value sustainability, so they'll appreciate a shop that doesn't let packaging go to waste.

Get familiar with shipping

As TechCrunch writer Ingrid Lunden noted in a 2019 piece about Depop, "buyers generally do not seem to expect the same kind of shipping, tracking, or delivery professionals appearing at their doors" as they would for big-box purchases. They understand that you, a fellow average human, are handling shipping, and are more likely to be chill about it — as long as you reach out and explain any delays.

Almost every resale app works with USPS to create printable shipping labels, which are paid for by the buyer unless toggled otherwise. Poshmark uses a flat shipping fee, while Depop and Mercari offer multiple options based on weight. UPS and FedEx are also options on Mercari and are sometimes slightly cheaper than USPS, depending on the item's weight.

It's smart to use a kitchen scale to weigh packages and choose a label accordingly. Otherwise, you risk the post office sending your package back if it's too heavy.

Selling fees explained

Though listing an item is technically free, each platform typically takes a percentage of your sale to cover other fees.

Note that these numbers aren't set in stone. Both Mercari and Depop have recently gone through phases where they ditched the selling fee altogether, just to replace it with an alternate type of charge. Sometimes, they return to the old model, sometimes they don't.

Here's the selling fee situation for the big apps as of April 2025:

• Depop no longer charges its previous 10% selling fee and instead charges sellers a payment processing fee (3.3% of the transaction amount plus $0.45, and buyers a U.S. marketplace fee of up to 5% of the purchase price). Allegedly, this allows sellers to keep slightly more of their profit.

• Mercari charges a flat 10% selling fee and charges buyers a flat 3.6% buyer protection fee.

• Poshmark charges sellers $2.95 for sales under $15 and 20% for sales of $15 or more. It's pretty steep, IMO.

• eBay selling fees range from 10% to 15.55%, depending on the product category and final item price. Clothing, shoes, and accessories come with a 13.25% selling fee, while sneakers specifically are at 8%.

• Vinted also no longer charges a straight up selling fee, instead charging buyers a 5% buyer protection fee plus $0.70.

Possibly the hardest pill to swallow in the online selling game is that you probably won't make the amount back that you paid. An item could be new with tags and buyers will still probably need to see a lower price to be convinced to buy from a random person instead of the brand's official website. See how other sellers are pricing similar items and keep wear in mind.

Dealing with lowballing

At some point, you're bound to encounter a prospective buyer who offers an amount so low, it feels offensive. A $10 top is already reasonable, but someone will inevitably try to get it for $7 (knowing damn well that, after shipping, you'll make about $2).

Making offers can be a useful tactic when done respectfully. Some users do make fair suggestions that won't halve your profit, and acquiescing could inspire an extra-sweet review. If you absolutely aren't down to haggle, note in the description that your asking price is firm.

The offer feature on the big selling apps makes it easy to send lower prices to users showing interest in your item. Buyers and sellers can negotiate by sending counteroffers, and sellers can also nudge buyers first by sending offers to people who have liked the item.

Remember: Good reviews matter more than follower count

Getting eyeballs on your profile depends less on follower count and more on quality photos, quick shipping, and responsiveness to buyers' questions. Cover those, and stacked positive reviews are likely in your future. Whether your goal is to build a following or simply get rid of stuff you're no longer feeling, the tips above can help get your items sold quickly — and get that cash into your bank account.