For proper clinching, which of the following actions must be taken with the nail?

For proper clinching, the correct action involves bending the nail over and driving it back into the wood surface. This method secures the nail firmly in place, preventing it from being pulled out easily and adding to the integrity of the structure. When the nail is bent, it creates a mechanical lock that increases the holding power of the fastener, making it particularly effective in applications where the wood may experience tension or movement.

The other actions do not achieve the same level of security or effectiveness. Driving the nail straight through the wood, for instance, might leave it exposed and vulnerable to pulling out. If the point of the nail protrudes through the wood, it isn't effectively clinching and could easily be dislodged. Cutting the nail to the desired length before nailing may be useful for aesthetics or avoiding excessive protrusion, but it does not contribute to the clinching process itself. Therefore, bending the nail over and driving it back into the wood is the key action that ensures proper clinching, leading to a more stable and durable connection.