In which step of the troubleshooting process do you establish a theory of probable cause?

The correct stage in the troubleshooting process where you establish a theory of probable cause is indeed the second step. This step follows the initial step, which involves identifying the problem. Once you have gathered enough information about the issue, you can brainstorm potential causes based on your observations and knowledge.

In establishing a theory of probable cause, the goal is to determine what might be causing the problem by considering various factors that could be at play. This may involve looking at both hardware and software elements or even environmental factors, depending on the context of the issue. Creating a list of hypotheses about what could be wrong is crucial as it helps guide the next steps in the troubleshooting process, where you would test these theories to identify the actual cause of the problem. Thus, this second step is fundamental to effectively diagnosing and resolving issues.