Final answer:
The formulation phase of policymaking involves identifying the problem, setting the agenda, and developing policy alternatives.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formulation phase of policymaking is a crucial part of the public policy process. It is the stage where policymakers identify the problem, set the agenda, and develop policy alternatives. The goal of this phase is to gather information, generate ideas, and evaluate potential solutions to address the issue at hand. For example, in the formulation phase of healthcare reform, policymakers may analyze data on healthcare access, evaluate different policy proposals, and consider the needs of various stakeholders before moving forward with a specific solution.