Final answer:
To resolve sticking keys on a laptop keyboard, the initial action should be to thoroughly clean the keyboard. Other actions, such as updating software or backing up data, are not directly related to this mechanical issue.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a technician encounters a laptop with sticking keys, the first step before considering a replacement of the keyboard is A) Clean the keyboard and keys thoroughly. Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can cause keys to stick, and a good cleaning may resolve the issue without the need for further action. It's important to use the correct cleaning materials, like isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth or compressed air, to avoid damaging the keyboard.
While updating the laptop's operating system, running hardware diagnostics, checking for software or driver conflicts, and backing up important data are all valuable actions in certain contexts, they're not targeted at resolving mechanical issues like sticking keys. Therefore, these steps would typically follow the initial cleaning if the issue persists.