A serious student has true grit (6)

I believe the answer is:

gravel

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'true grit' is the definition.
'gravel' can be an answer for 'grit' (I've seen this before). I'm not certain of the 'true' bit.

'a serious student' is the wordplay.
'a serious' becomes 'grave' (both can mean solemn).
'student' becomes 'l' (as in L-plates for learner drivers).
'grave'+'l'='GRAVEL'

'has' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gravel that I've seen before include "Small loose stones" , "bits of rock" , "Grit" , "Small rounded stones" , "Small stones on paths" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.