What is the most logical next event?

How to know if your lawn needs dethatching
Walk on the lawn to see if it feels firm or spongy.
The first thing that gives you a hint at whether or not your lawn needs to be dethatched is the feel of it. Walk around for awhile and see if the ground feels firm.

OPT:
[1]. If you're going to make a decision about whether or not to dethatch your lawn, stick with a rule of thumb. If your soil feels soft and spongy, it probably needs dethatching.;
[2]. You don't want to break the soil underneath, especially if you live in an area that's prone to row plantings. If it feels too soft or spongy, you may have moss growing around it.;
[3]. If it feels spongy, or almost bouncy, that's a sign that the thatch has gotten too thick. If you don't mind the feeling, walk around barefoot to get an even better feel of the firmness of the ground.;
[4]. If it is, try the following methods of making sure the ground is firm enough for a dethatching project : Check the ground for water. Anything that feels spongy at the base may have water damage done to the surface.;
[3].