How do you choose a non-obvious early resource in Minecraft to save time later?

[Jonathan.G]

Minecraft is all about building, but survival mode can get grindy. What's a specific, non-obvious early-game resource you prioritize gathering that saves you a ton of time or hassle later on?

[DonaldAG]

Bone meal is my early priority I stock bones from skeletons and make bone meal for crops and trees It lets me grow food and wood fast instead of waiting for natural growth

[Donald66]

String for scaffolding I grab a stack from spiders and craft scaffolding Then building becomes quicker and safer no ladders needed

[KennethXS]

Redstone dust early on helps with small automation like doors and simple timers It pays off later when you want compact bases and farms to run themselves

[JacobP]

Sugar cane near water I plant a lot of it and keep a stack for future books maps and enchantments It saves trips back to the base when you start a big project minecraft seeds 2025