What is the first step in the scientific method?

The first step in the scientific method is the observation of phenomena. This step involves carefully noticing and describing a particular phenomenon in the natural world, which can be a process, event, or behavioral pattern that piques curiosity. Observations are critical as they provide the foundation upon which all other steps are built. By observing, researchers gather qualitative and quantitative data, which can lead to questions and eventually to the formulation of a hypothesis. This initial observation sets the stage for scientific inquiry, driving the exploration of underlying principles and causal relationships.