Final answer:
The HP Pavilion x360's display issue, indicated by functioning indicators and a working external monitor connection, suggests a screen repair or replacement is needed. The laptop's functionality, aside from the display, means Janice's data is likely recoverable. Professional inspection of the display's connection is required, followed by data backup and potential hardware repair.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Janice's HP Pavilion x360 laptop appeared "dead" after being dropped, but later displayed the Windows sign-on screen on an external monitor, it indicates that the laptop is still functional but likely has a display issue. The fact that other indicators such as lights and fan are active support this diagnosis. Just like concluding that a car's dead battery is the issue when it won't start, or a dog has eaten the bread based on circumstantial evidence, we deduce that the laptop's screen needs repair or replacement.
The next step would be to check the connection of the laptop's internal display. This could involve opening the laptop to ensure that the display cable is securely connected and has not been dislodged by the impact. If the cable is secure and the screen still does not work, the problem could be with the display itself, which would then require replacement.
The good news for Janice is that her data is likely safe, given that the laptop can boot to Windows and function with an external monitor. A backup of the data should be made before proceeding with any hardware repairs to secure the data against any unforeseen issues that might arise during the repair process.