A scholarly introduction (6)

I believe the answer is:

primer

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'introduction' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for primer that I've seen before include "Introductory textbook or first coat of paint" , "instructive book" , "Preparatory coat of paint" , "He charges" , "Basic book; undercoat" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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