Answer :
Final answer:
To prevent wood splitting, especially in dense hardwood, it is advisable to pre-drill pilot holes before driving screws, hence the correct option is A) Pre-drill pilot holes.
Explanation:
When working with hardwood, which is known for its density and propensity to split, pre-drilling pilot holes is crucial for successful screw installation. Pre-drilling creates a path for the screws, reducing resistance and minimizing the risk of damaging the wood fibers.
This practice ensures a secure and stable connection without compromising the integrity of the wood. Using longer screws (Option B) may not address the splitting issue and can be impractical.
Tightening screws quickly (Option C) or hammering them into place (Option D) can lead to wood damage and are not recommended techniques. Therefore, pre-drilling pilot holes is the recommended method for driving wood screws in hardwood, providing a reliable and effective solution for optimal results.