What tool is essential for anchoring pilot holes when installing wall plates?

The essential tool for anchoring pilot holes when installing wall plates is an awl. An awl is a pointed instrument that is particularly useful for creating small indentations or punctures in a surface, effectively marking where the pilot hole should be drilled. By using an awl, an installer can ensure that the drill will start precisely at the intended location without wandering, which is crucial for achieving accuracy in the installation process.

While a drill is important for making the pilot holes themselves and a screwdriver is necessary for securing screws into those holes, the initial step of preparing the location with a precise mark is where the awl shines. A saw, on the other hand, is unrelated to the process of installing wall plates, as it is primarily used for cutting materials rather than for marking or drilling. Thus, the awl is the most appropriate tool for this specific task.