Which of the following is NOT one of the three essential steps of dive planning?

The three essential steps of dive planning are critical to ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience. Choosing a dive site is certainly an important component of dive planning, but it does not fall under the three essential steps. The correct three essential steps are deciding objectives, identifying equipment requirements, and scheduling the activity.

Deciding objectives lays the groundwork for what the divers aim to achieve during the dive, whether it be exploring a specific underwater feature, conducting research, or merely enjoying the dive itself. Identifying equipment requirements ensures that the divers have the necessary gear to accommodate the objectives and the conditions of the dive, ensuring safety and preparedness. Scheduling the activity takes into account factors such as tides, weather conditions, and the availability of time for the dive.

While choosing a dive site is important, as it determines the location and environment in which the dive will occur, it is generally considered a subsequent step that follows the establishment of objectives and the assessment of equipment needs. Therefore, it is not classified among the three essential steps of dive planning.