Crossword Genius

Speaker's set down mnemonic method (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rote

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'mnemonic method' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to thinking as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'speaker's set down' is the wordplay.
'speaker's' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue.
'set down' becomes 'wrote' (I've seen this in another clue).
'wrote' is a homophone of 'ROTE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rote that I've seen before include "Repetition of something to be learned" , "By . . . . - from memory without thought" , "Repetition from memory" , "Learn by ____ (repetition)" , "Habitual routine" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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