What is the first step you would take after receiving a clearance to hold?

When you receive a clearance to hold, the first step is to verify the DME distance and radial. This action is crucial because it ensures you have the correct information regarding the holding fix and allows you to understand where you will be positioned in relation to air traffic and the navigational aids. Understanding the appropriate DME distance helps to accurately enter the holding pattern and maintain proper separation from other aircraft. This verification process is critical for safe operation in the holding pattern, as it lays the groundwork for the subsequent steps, such as calculating the holding pattern radius or beginning the hold itself.

While beginning the hold, calculating the radius, or communicating with ground control may all be important actions taken during the process, ensuring the accuracy of distance and radial is fundamental and serves as the necessary first step for executing the hold safely and efficiently.