Access and Remove Pop-Up Assembly Pivot Rod

What happens here

To further diagnose the issue, you need to access the pop-up drain assembly located directly underneath the sink basin. Position yourself to look up under the sink. Locate the pivot rod that extends out from the side of the drain pipe. This rod is typically secured by a large, threaded plastic or metal nut. Carefully twist this nut counter-clockwise by hand (or with pliers/wrench if it's too tight) to loosen and remove it. Once the nut is removed, gently pull the pivot rod straight out from the drain assembly. Be prepared for a small amount of water to drip out if the drain was recently used or if the seal was compromised.

Goal: Expose the internal mechanism of the sink's pop-up drain assembly.