What is the first step in the procedure for gradation determination?

The first step in the procedure for determining gradation is reduction. This process involves taking a larger sample of aggregate and reducing it to a smaller, manageable quantity that can be tested for gradation. Reduction is crucial because the gradation analysis requires a representative sample that reflects the properties of the entire batch of material being tested.

After the sample has been reduced, subsequent steps such as drying, washing, and calculation/reporting can take place, but these follow the initial reduction step. Each of these subsequent steps plays a role in preparing and analyzing the representative portion of the aggregate for size distribution, but they cannot occur until the sample has been adequately reduced.