What tool is used to mark the center of a hole before drilling?

The center punch is the correct tool to use for marking the center of a hole before drilling. This tool features a pointed tip that creates a small indentation in the material, which serves to guide the drill bit accurately once drilling begins. By establishing a precise point for the drill to enter, the center punch helps prevent the drill bit from wandering or slipping, ultimately resulting in a cleaner and more accurate hole.

Using a center punch is particularly important in hard materials where the drill bit may otherwise skip on the surface. It ensures that the drilling process begins at the intended location, which is crucial for tasks requiring precision.

Other tools listed, such as a drill bit, pilot hole, and chisel, do not fulfill the function of marking the center in the same effective manner. A drill bit is used for the actual drilling process, while a pilot hole refers to a smaller preliminary hole created to aid in drilling larger holes. A chisel is designed for cutting and shaping materials rather than marking drill points. Thus, a center punch stands out as the most effective and appropriate tool for this task.