Crossword Genius

Adds to writings, erasing beginning but including conclusion (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

extends

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

'adds' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to change as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'writings erasing beginning but including conclusion' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'conclusion' could be 'end' (something's conclusion is its end) and 'end' is located in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for extends that I've seen before include "Lengthens" , "holds out" , "Stretches out over a distance" , "Makes longer" , "Widens" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app