Reference
Reference Notes
This clue appears to lean on a named reference or quoted wording in "First things first for a chef", so spelling and context are important.
NYT Crossword
First things first for a chef NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Identify the named person, title, quote, or cultural reference before checking the grid length.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a reference clue and verify that the 4 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 4-letter slot.
- The answer slot has 4 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- This clue appears to lean on a named reference or quoted wording in "First things first for a chef", so spelling and context are important.
- This clue appears at 10A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
PREP
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
PREP is the 4-letter answer for "First things first for a chef" in the NYT Crossword. The clue relies on a specific name, title, quote, or cultural reference, so exact spelling matters more than broad synonym matching.
- Grid entry: PREP in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Reference clue.
- This is Across at 10A, so use the Down crossings to confirm PREP.
- PREP has 4 letters, matching the required slot for 10A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using PREP
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all PREP clues Position 10A
Answer length 4
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Across at 10A, so use the Down crossings to confirm PREP.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a reference clue and verify that the 4 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
April 22, 2026 Daily / 10A / 4 letters
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