Fetching details from the dictionary...

groundwork; foundation
inclination; aptitude; elementary knowledge (of); grounding (in)
undercoat; first coat
soy sauce
成功するための下地を作っておく。
I'll prepare the groundwork for success.
料理の下地をしっかりと学んできた。
I've thoroughly learned the basics of cooking.
しっかりした下地があれば応用も簡単だ。
With a solid foundation, application is easy too.