sifting (n.)

• appraisal
• assessment
• assortment
• categorization
• clarification
• classification
• culling
• detection
• distillation
• elution
• evaluation
• extraction
• factoring
• filtration
• gradation
• grouping
• hearing
• identification
• investigation
• leaching
• percolation
• placement
• probe
• purification
• ranking
• refinement
• research
• screening
• selection
• separation
• sleuthing
• sorting
• spiritualization
• straining
• sublimation
• subordination
• taxonomy
• triage
• weighing
• winnowing
• witch-hunt