This document discusses the first stage of comprehensive orthodontic treatment. The goals of the first stage are to align the teeth and correct vertical discrepancies by leveling the dental arches. Various techniques for archwire selection and tooth alignment are discussed, including for situations involving symmetric and asymmetric crowding, crossbites, impacted or unerupted teeth, diastema closure, and premolar extractions. Factors such as archwire material, size, and distance between attachments that influence tooth movement are also covered.