What should be checked first during the final shading review?

Correct answer: Light direction and major tonal relationships

The governing concept is to establish the large light-dark structure before details. First check whether the light direction is consistent and whether the major light, middle, and dark values describe the form convincingly. Thus option A is correct. Fine texture belongs later because detailed marks cannot repair incorrect volume or lighting. Pencil-point condition and signature darkness are tools or presentation matters, not the primary tonal judgment.