KanjiJLPT N2
Base

foothold, based on, follow, therefore

Mnemonic

With your hand, you dispose of every rock and weed cluttering the hilltop. Only after you dispose of it all can you lay down a proper base for the fortress that will command the valley below.
Additional thoughts
Picture physically clearing ground by hand—tossing away debris—before pouring a concrete foundation. The act of disposing creates the clean slate a base requires.
Quick recall
Hand disposes of debris to clear a solid base.

Details

The keyword for 拠 is base. This kanji refers to a foundation, foothold, or stronghold upon which something is established or from which operations are conducted. It conveys the idea of relying on or depending on something as a point of support. It is commonly associated with concepts like a military base, a basis for an argument, or evidence that serves as grounds for a claim.
On'yomi
きょ、こ
Kun'yomi
よ.る