What step would come earliest in the procedure when performing a plain manicure?

The earliest step in performing a plain manicure involves softening the cuticles. This step is important as it prepares the cuticles for further grooming and helps prevent any damage to the nail or surrounding skin. By softening the cuticles, you create a more manageable environment for pushing back or trimming the cuticles, which is essential for achieving a neat and polished look.

Following this step, cleaning the nails may occur to remove any dirt or oil, preparing them for subsequent procedures such as shaping or applying polish. However, the initial focus on cuticle care lays the foundation for a successful and aesthetically pleasing manicure process. Thus, softening the cuticles is the foundational step that precedes all others in the manicure routine.