Minute Cryptic - One Cryptic Clue a Day
Minute Cryptic teaches you cryptic crosswords one clue at a time - a single handcrafted clue every day with hints, letter reveals and a short video explanation.
How a cryptic clue works
Every cryptic clue hides two paths to the same answer. Reading them apart is the whole game.
The definition
One end of the clue is a straight definition of the answer, like a normal crossword. It is always at the start or the end - never in the middle.
The wordplay
The rest of the clue builds the answer piece by piece: anagrams, hidden words, reversals, containers, homophones and charades.
Indicators
Words like mixed, back, inside or sounds tell you which trick is being used. Learn to spot them and clues stop being magic.
The surface
Read literally, the clue tells a mini story designed to mislead you. Ignore the story, split the clue into definition + wordplay.
Getting started
- 1Find the definition first
Try the first word, then the last word. Ask: does the rest of the clue still make sense as instructions?
- 2Count the letters
The number in brackets is the answer length - a huge constraint when two readings compete.
- 3Use a hint instead of the answer
Revealing a letter or the clue type keeps the solve yours. The daily video explains the full logic after.
FAQ
Is Minute Cryptic free?
Yes - the daily clue is free to play in your browser, with optional membership for the archive and extra modes.
What is a cryptic clue?
A crossword-style clue with two parts: a straight definition plus wordplay (anagram, hidden word, reversal and so on) that builds the same answer a second way.
Is Minute Cryptic good for beginners?
It is built for them - one clue a day instead of a full grid, hints on demand, and a short video that explains every step of the solution.
When does the clue reset?
A new clue appears every day, and solving it daily keeps your streak going.