Final answer:
The step in the writing process that includes choosing a topic, identifying the audience, gathering research, and organizing ideas is Planning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The step in the writing process that includes choosing a topic, identifying the audience, gathering research, and organizing ideas is Planning. During the planning phase, you spend time considering the rhetorical situation for your report, understanding your assignment, gathering ideas and information, drafting a thesis statement, and creating an organizational plan.