What are best techniques used for each drying stage of clay?

During the drying stages of clay, the best techniques include initial slow drying to prevent cracking, often achieved by covering the clay with plastic to maintain moisture. As it progresses to the leather-hard stage, it's beneficial to allow air circulation while avoiding direct sunlight, which can cause uneven drying. Once the clay reaches the bone-dry state, it should be left in a controlled environment with consistent temperature and humidity to ensure even drying before firing. Lastly, monitoring moisture levels throughout the process helps prevent defects.