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Helpful nuggets from experts — NYT Mini Crossword Clue (October 18, 2025)

Word Tips mentions an anagram of RIPSTOP and jokes about slightly sarcastic advice. That locks in PROTIPS. We turn that into a friendly explainer so you remember the gaming and tech slang roots of the phrase. All apostrophes appear as ' and quotation marks as " to keep markup valid.

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Helpful nuggets from experts

PROTIPS

If someone drops a "pro tip" on social media, they are sharing insider knowledge—sometimes with a wink. The Mini clue turns that internet shorthand into a crossword answer. Word Tips doubles down with the RIPSTOP anagram, showing you the letters in a fresh light.

Crossing Safety Net

  • 4-Across UGG plugs each syllable into place so your streak stays intact even if you are new to the slang.
  • 7-Across ORE plugs each syllable into place so your streak stays intact even if you are new to the slang.
  • 8-Across PRE plugs each syllable into place so your streak stays intact even if you are new to the slang.
  • 13-Across ISLAM plugs each syllable into place so your streak stays intact even if you are new to the slang.

Solver Cheat Sheet

Meaning Hint

Expert advice, especially in tutorials or streams, is often labeled as pro tips. The clue phrases it with the same wording.

Anagram Prompt

RIPSTOP rearranged is PROTIPS. That memory trick makes the fill feel more responsive.

Alternate Cue

Watch for hints like "Twitch streamer's advice" or "Gaming walkthrough nuggets." They all lead to PROTIPS.

Solve Smart

Drop PROTIPS as soon as you see "experts" or "nuggets" in the clue. It is a modern crossword staple, so keep it ready.