What visual sign distinguishes a damp surface from an overly wet one?

Correct answer: A damp surface has an even slight sheen without pooled water

For controlled wet-on-wet work, the paper should show a thin, even sheen of moisture. It should look damp but should not contain visible puddles or freely moving drops. Pooled water dilutes pigment and makes its movement difficult to control. Option A is correct because it identifies both the useful visual sheen and the absence of excess water. The other choices confuse dry, wet, and damp conditions.