After placing the simple level on the pavement, what is the next action?

When using a simple level on the pavement, the primary goal is to ensure that the surface is level or to measure the slope accurately. After placing the level, adjusting the down end until the level reads as level is the logical next step. This action is crucial because it allows for an accurate reading of the surface being assessed.

When the down end is raised until the level indicates balance, you are effectively determining if there is even slight deviation from a completely level surface. This process is vital in asphalt paving because proper drainage and stability depend on the correct slope and leveling of the pavement.

If the focus were on other steps, such as calculating the slope percentage or removing the level for measurement, these would only be appropriate after ensuring that the level is balanced. Therefore, raising the down end to achieve a level reading facilitates accurate assessment and subsequent action based on that data.