The New York Times Mini Crossword clue “Spreadsheet rectangles” refers to cells, the foundational units of spreadsheets like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. These rectangular areas are where data—ranging from text and numbers to formulas—is stored. They form the grid structure of spreadsheets, created by the intersection of rows (horizontal) and columns (vertical).

Why Cells Are Essential

• Organization: Cells help structure data efficiently, allowing users to input and manage information systematically.
• Calculations: Formulas in cells link data for real-time computations, such as summing values or analyzing trends.
• Data Analysis: With functions like pivot tables and charts, cells support sophisticated analyses, enabling users to draw insights from datasets.

Crossword Trivia

This clue, like many in NYT crosswords, challenges solvers to think abstractly. While “cells” is the most direct answer, related terms like “columns,” “rows,” or “grids” could appear depending on puzzle difficulty.

The term “spreadsheet rectangles” highlights the clever use of everyday tools in crossword puzzles, offering a simple yet thought-provoking challenge.