Final answer:
In problem-solving, gather all available data is the correct initial step before performing any mathematical operations or interpreting results. It helps in comprehensively understanding the problem and the requirements for finding the solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct step in solving a problem is b) Gather all available data. Before performing any calculations or interpreting results, it is crucial to identify the 'given' information and what the problem is asking you to 'find'. Only after collecting all necessary information can you proceed with performing the necessary calculations and subsequently interpret the results.
In the context of problem-solving in mathematics or any related field, the initial step always involves determining the system of interest, to accurately gather all the relevant data and understand the problem at hand. A useful strategy is to try creating a sketch if the problem allows for it, which can offer a visual aid to better comprehend the relationships among the known and unknown variables. This foundational step paves the way for any subsequent analysis or operations needed to solve the problem.