Here is a goal: how to stain wood

Which way makes more sense to accomplish this goal?

Possible answers: (I). Sand bare wood lightly too open the pores in preparation for staining. Open the stain you have purchased and stir thoroughly, then apply with a bristle brush, foam brush or cloth evenly.. (II). Make sure wood is not bare. . Open the stain you have purchased and stir thoroughly, then apply with a bristle brush, foam brush or cloth evenly..
(I).