Home Builders Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (HBI-PACT) Practice Test

To achieve a smooth finish on a wooden surface, using an orbital sander is the most effective option. This tool is specifically designed for sanding and smoothing surfaces. It operates with a circular motion, which helps to reduce the risk of leaving swirl marks or uneven patches, providing a more uniform finish. The orbital sander can accommodate various grits of sandpaper, allowing for different degrees of smoothness, from removing rough spots to achieving a fine, polished surface.

In contrast, other tools listed are not intended for finishing wooden surfaces. Groove joint pliers and lineman's pliers are types of pliers used for gripping and manipulating electrical wiring or pipes, not for sanding. Needle nose pliers, known for their precision and narrow tips, are useful for intricate tasks but lack the capability to smooth surfaces effectively. Therefore, the orbital sander is the right tool for this task.