Which of the following is the NEXT step in the troubleshooting theory after identifying the problem?

After identifying the problem, the technician must form a hypothesis - a theory of probable cause - by considering the most common or likely reasons the symptom occurs before taking any corrective action. This structured approach prevents wasted effort by guiding the subsequent testing step toward a focused target rather than random trial-and-error.

Testing the theory is the third step in the methodology and cannot occur before a theory has first been established in step two.

Implementing preventative measures is the final step after the solution has been verified as working, not the step immediately after identifying the problem.

Establishing a plan of action is step four in the methodology and comes after the theory has already been tested and confirmed.