Which of the following best describes the procedure for drilling a hole?

The best procedure for drilling a hole involves a systematic approach to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Starting with layout, the workpiece is marked to indicate the precise location where the hole will be drilled. This step is crucial as it guides the subsequent actions.

Next, using a prick punch creates a small indentation at the marked spot. This indentation helps in centering the drill bit and prevents it from wandering, which is important for maintaining accuracy during drilling.

Following the prick punch, the center drill is used. This tool creates a deeper, smaller hole that serves as a guide for the larger drill bit, which is the next step. The use of a center drill minimizes the friction and stress on the larger drill bit, making the drilling process smoother and more reliable.

After the hole is drilled to the desired depth and diameter, a countersink can be applied if necessary. This step is particularly useful if the hole needs to accommodate a screw head or if a smooth finish around the hole's edge is desired.

This overall sequence emphasizes the importance of both layout and the proper use of tools to achieve a clean and accurate hole. The other choices do not maintain this logical order or introduce incorrect procedures, which could lead to inaccuracies or inefficiencies in the drilling process.