Sand and Apply Additional Coats (Implied)

What happens here

After the first coat of joint compound is completely dry, lightly sand the entire patched area with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 150-grit) or a sanding sponge. The goal is to remove any high spots or imperfections. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth. Apply a second, and if necessary, a third thin coat of joint compound, each time feathering the edges further out from the patch. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly and sand lightly between coats until the repair is flush and smooth with the surrounding wall, with no visible edges or humps.

Goal: Lightly sand the dried first coat smooth, then apply one or two more thin coats of joint compound, sanding lightly between each coat, to achieve a perfectly smooth and blended finish.