What is a key characteristic of a proper welding technique?

Maintaining a steady and controlled hand movement is essential in achieving high-quality welds in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). This technique helps in controlling the heat input, ensuring that the weld pool remains consistent and avoids issues such as excessive penetration or insufficient fusion between the parts being joined. A steady hand movement allows the welder to produce a uniform bead profile, which contributes to the overall strength and integrity of the weld. Consistency in motion is also crucial for controlling the arc length, which is vital for preventing defects such as slag inclusion or porosity. This technique emphasizes precision over speed and encourages the welder to focus on creating a sound joint that meets the necessary mechanical properties and aesthetic standards.