8 steps guide to determine the initial and the final setting time of cement
as per IS: 4031 (Part 5)

Materials and apparatus required :

1. Vicat apparatus conforming to IS: 5513
2. Balance, whose permissible variation at a load of 1000 gms should be +1.0 gm
3. Gauging trowel conforming to IS: 10086
4. Cement specimen to be tested
5. Potable water
6.Measuring jar
7. Stop watch

Content retrieved from: http://www.probcguide.com/civil-works/initial-and-final-setting-time-of-cement-is-5513-part-5/.