Final answer:
The planning step in the scientific problem-solving method involves asking a question, researching, and formulating a hypothesis. When applied to chemistry, this translates to identifying reactants and products, and planning how to balance the chemical equation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The step from the scientific problem-solving method that relates to planning is the beginning phase where you define the problem and plan your approach. The corresponding steps in a scientific context involve asking a question, researching existing sources, and formulating a hypothesis. Initially, identifying the given information and what the problem is asking you to find is critical. This initial planning stage is where you would follow the steps for writing and balancing a chemical equation as listed in your text.
For example, when presented with a chemical reaction, you first identify the reactants and products (the given information) and then determine how to balance the equation so that the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation (what you are finding).