Do some spadework - for the figure (5)

I believe the answer is:

digit

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'for the figure' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for digit that I've seen before include "A small number" , "one's given?" , "one of several at hand" , "Single numeral" , "finger, perhaps" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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