You can write one if you try (5)

I believe the answer is:

essay

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'try' is the definition.
(essay can mean to try or attempt something)

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for essay that I've seen before include "What may be written in exam" , "Composition; attempt" , "Written composition" , "Attempt - piece of writing" , "Attempt - written work" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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