Pedalling question

[smcroberts]

I'm unable to find a clear, general explanation of the timing of the pedal push and release.
In this instance:

• Do you push down the pedal before striking the notes or after they're down?
• Do you release the pedal at the start of the rest or at the end of the rest?
  

Thanks!

[j_menz]

It depends a little on context, but from what's there, I'd pedal before or with the notes and lift before the rest.

Pedalling after, with the notes held, gives quite a different effect, which may suit if the context allows.

[ajspiano]

Points for consideration..

The pedal would of course be intended to capture only that note (chord). How exactly you do that depends on the sound you with to make.

If you held the pedal through the rest (rather than releasing at the beginning) what purpose would the rest serve? why not write a dotted crotchet?