When preparing to screw in an anchor, what is the first adjustment made with a kelly bar?

The correct answer centers on the process of ensuring stability when installing an anchor. Locking the anchor into place is essential as it provides a secure foundation before any further adjustments or actions. This initial step prevents any movement when the anchor screw begins to be driven into the ground, reducing the risk of misalignment or failure during the installation process. By ensuring the anchor is locked, you create a solid point from which to work, fostering safety and efficiency.

The other options relate to different stages of the anchor installation process. Setting the pins to the outer or inner position typically pertains to the adjustment of the kelly bar, which can be done later in the setup. Sliding the kelly bar into the kelly head is a necessary action as well, but it usually follows the securing of the anchor. Each of these actions is important in sequence, but locking the anchor into place as the first adjustment ensures that the subsequent actions can be performed safely and effectively.