The step that occurs immediately before sediments are laid down in the rock cycle is weathering and erosion.

Here's why:

* Weathering breaks down existing rocks into smaller pieces. This can be caused by physical forces (like wind, water, or ice) or chemical reactions.

* Erosion is the process of transporting those weathered rock fragments. This is usually done by wind, water, or glaciers.

Once these broken-down rock fragments (sediments) are transported to a new location, they can be deposited and eventually form sedimentary rocks.