A good surface landmark for the true vocal cords is the:

The thyroid cartilage serves as an important anatomical landmark for the true vocal cords because it is the largest cartilage of the larynx and is located directly above the vocal cords. The true vocal cords, or vocal folds, are situated inferior to the thyroid cartilage, where they play a crucial role in sound production and phonation.

The prominence of the thyroid cartilage, often referred to as the "Adam's apple," is palpable in individuals and acts as a reference point for both medical professionals and practitioners in procedures involving the airway and vocal apparatus. Its position provides a reliable landmark for locating the true vocal cords during examination or interventions such as intubation.

In contrast, other options, while relevant to the anatomy of the neck, do not provide the same direct correlation to the location of the true vocal cords. The cricoid cartilage is located below the thyroid cartilage and serves as an important landmark for the airway but is not directly above the vocal cords. The suprasternal notch is more superficial and can be an anatomical reference point for structures of the airway but does not relate specifically to the vocal cords. The hyoid bone, situated higher in the neck, is associated with the base of the tongue and provides support for the larynx, but it