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 Friday, Dec. 1, 2023:

Across

Pop

• The answer is dad.

City in upstate New York

• The answer is Utica.

All of them lead to Rome, in a saying

• The answer is roads.

Judi in the Bond films

• The answer is Dench.

Red, white and blue inits.

• The answer is USA.

Down

Main focus of season 5 of "The Crown"

• The answer is Diana.

"Thunderstruck" band

• The answer is AC/DC.

— or –

• The answer is dash.

National language of Pakistan

• The answer is Urdu.

Sandals expose them

• The answer is toes.

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