Which level is preferred for rough grading due to its portability and ease of use over short distances?

The hand level is preferred for rough grading primarily because it is lightweight and portable, allowing for easy transport across job sites and quick setups. Its straightforward design simplifies the process of taking quick and rough measurements over short distances, making it ideal for tasks where precision is less critical and speed is of the essence.

When it comes to rough grading, the ability to quickly assess slopes and levels without the need for complex setups is advantageous, making the hand level a practical tool for fieldwork where ease of use is essential. Its functionality allows the operator to determine the general grade or slope of the land without the intricacies or equipment requirements associated with more advanced surveying tools.

In contrast, options like total stations and laser levels offer high precision and advanced functionality that are typically more suitable for detailed surveys rather than rough grading tasks, where rapid assessment is needed. Meanwhile, the dump level, while useful in certain tasks, does not provide the same level of convenience or portability as the hand level for initial grading assessments.