What to do before a marathon, perhaps

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The Marathon Begins Before the Starting Line: Cracking a Tricky Crossword Clue

We’ve all been there. You’re cruising through the crossword, feeling confident. Then, BAM! A clue hits you like a brick wall. It’s like the puzzle itself is saying, “Think you’re a crossword whiz? Prove it.”

These are the moments that make us love (and sometimes hate) the crossword game. They push us to think differently, to dig deep into our brains and our vocabulary. They test our knowledge, our problem-solving skills, and maybe even our patience.

But even the toughest clues can be conquered. Today, we’re tackling a real head-scratcher: “

What to do before a marathon, perhaps

“. This clue might feel a bit ambiguous, but don’t let it throw you off. Let’s break it down and find that satisfying “aha!” moment.

The Art of the Cross-Reference

First, consider the surrounding clues and their answers. Do any of them hint at a theme or category? Sometimes, the answers themselves can provide valuable clues.

Beyond the Literal

The clue isn’t always about a literal marathon, so think outside the box. What other scenarios might require “preparation before a big event”?

Don’t Be Afraid to Brainstorm

Write down every possible answer that comes to mind, even if it seems ridiculous. You never know what might spark that crucial connection.

Synonyms and Wordplay

Consider synonyms for the keywords in the clue. For example, “prepare” could be “train,” “practice,” or “study.” Don’t be afraid to get creative with wordplay.

The Power of Letter Counts

Remember the number of letters in the answer. This can help you narrow down your options and rule out unlikely possibilities.

Keep Trying

Don’t get discouraged if you’re stuck. Take a break, come back later with fresh eyes, and remember that even the most challenging puzzles have solutions. And hey, that satisfying “aha!” moment is all the more rewarding after a good struggle.

Ready to give this clue a go?

Let me know what you come up with in the comments below! Happy solving!

What to do before a marathon, perhaps

Available Answers:

REST UP.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 16 Oct 24, Wednesday