What autocorrect corrects - NYT Mini-Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "What autocorrect corrects," is a perfect example of a modern, straightforward clue found in the NYT Mini. It taps into a universal experience of the digital age, making it highly accessible to solvers of all levels. Let's break down how to arrive at the answer.

Clue Analysis

The clue is a direct definition. It asks for the name of the things that the software feature "autocorrect" is designed to fix. Autocorrect's primary function is to identify and change misspelled or mistyped words as a user is typing. Therefore, the answer is the common term for these kinds of mistakes.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue this direct, most solvers will likely use a simple association method:

1. Direct Association: The brain immediately connects "autocorrect" with the errors it fixes. What do you call it when you accidentally type "teh" instead of "the"? That's the answer.
2. Functional Analysis: Ask yourself, "What is the purpose of autocorrect?" Its purpose is to correct errors. What kind of errors? Typing errors. The common slang for this is the answer.
3. Synonym Brainstorm: Think of words related to mistakes in writing: errors, miscues, misspellings, flubs. This line of thinking quickly leads to the specific term for a typing mistake.

Background Context

The term TYPOS is a clipping of "typographical errors." While the concept of such errors is as old as printing itself, the term "typo" became common in the late 19th century. Today, with digital keyboards on phones and computers being our primary mode of writing, these small mistakes are more frequent than ever.

Autocorrect technology, while incredibly helpful, is also famous for its occasional failures, sometimes substituting a word with a completely unrelated and often humorous one. This phenomenon has spawned countless memes and websites dedicated to "autocorrect fails."

Conclusion

This clue is a great example of how crossword constructors pull from everyday life. By asking a simple question about a technology we all use, it provides a satisfying and quick solve. There's no tricky wordplay or obscure knowledge required, just a connection to a daily digital interaction.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think about mistakes made while using a keyboard.
2. Hint 2: These are small, unintentional errors in spelling or key presses.
3. Hint 3: The answer is a common, shortened term for a longer phrase.
4. Hint 4: The full phrase is 'typographical errors'.

The answer is: TYPOS