Smith owns a large tract of land in a city. She wants to subdivide the tract. Which of the following should she do first?

While preparing a plat is a crucial part of the subdivision process, it should occur only after confirming compliance with applicable laws and regulations. A plat is a detailed map that outlines the proposed subdivision layout, but without first understanding the legal framework, the plat may need to be revised or rejected.

Dedication of land for public use, such as streets and parks, is an important consideration in the subdivision process. However, this step should come after ensuring that all legal requirements are met. Premature dedication could lead to complications if the subdivision plan is not approved or if it violates local regulations.

Planning the street and clustering patterns is a fundamental aspect of designing a subdivision, but it should follow the verification of local ordinances. Without a clear understanding of zoning laws and regulations, the proposed layout might not be permissible, leading to wasted efforts in planning that cannot be executed.