What is the first step in the decision-making process?

The first step in the decision-making process is to state the problem. This is essential as it clearly defines the issue that needs to be addressed and sets the foundation for the subsequent steps. By articulating the problem, individuals can better understand the context and implications of their decisions, which leads to a more structured approach throughout the process. A well-defined problem ensures that all parties involved have a common understanding of the challenge at hand, which helps in generating effective solutions later on.

In contrast, identifying resources, setting goals, and listing alternatives are crucial steps that follow the initial problem statement. These actions require a comprehensive understanding of the problem, making it imperative to start with a clear description of the issue to successfully navigate the decision-making process.