The steps in the process of decision making are:
(i) Selecting an alternative
(ii) Defining the problem
(iii) Putting the plan in action
(iv) Identify the alternatives Choose the correct sequence:

Question

The steps in the process of decision making are: 
(i) Selecting an alternative 
(ii) Defining the problem 
(iii) Putting the plan in action 
(iv) Identify the alternatives Choose the correct sequence:

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:
The correct option is 3 because the sequence (ii), (iv), (i), (iii) represents the universally accepted logical flow for effective decision making in fields such as Home Management and Business Administration. This systematic process is essentially a way of bridging the gap between a present reality and a desired future in the most rational manner. The process must begin with **(ii) Defining the problem**, as you cannot solve what you do not understand; this critical first step involves clearly articulating the issue, setting boundaries, and identifying the core need requiring resolution. After a clear definition, the next mandatory step is **(iv) Identify the alternatives**, where the decision-maker must thoroughly brainstorm, research, and list all viable courses of action that could potentially address the defined problem. Only once the alternatives are known and evaluated (a step implicitly included between (iv) and (i)) can the process move to **(i) Selecting an alternative**, which is the crucial moment of commitment to the single best option. The process concludes, among these choices, with **(iii) Putting the plan in action**, where the selected course of action is executed, translating the abstract decision into a concrete result.

The incorrect option is 1: (iv), (ii), (i), (iii).
This sequence proposes starting with identifying alternatives (iv) before defining the problem (ii), which fundamentally violates the principle of rational problem-solving. Students must understand that you cannot effectively look for solutions before you know what the actual problem is; starting here would likely lead to wasted resources and time addressing a symptom rather than the root cause. Defining the problem provides the essential context and criteria necessary to even begin searching for relevant alternatives. Therefore, 'Defining the problem' must always precede 'Identifying the alternatives' for the decision to be relevant, effective, and efficient.

The incorrect option is 2: (iii), (ii), (i), (iv).
This option incorrectly begins the decision-making process with **(iii) Putting the plan in action**, which is a severe procedural error in any planning or management model. Action is the final step of execution, not the initial phase of analysis. A decision-making process is initiated by a recognised need or problem, not by the implementation of a non-existent or unchosen solution. Furthermore, the remaining sequence is illogical: it suggests defining the problem (ii) after a plan has supposedly been implemented. Remember, the implementation step or 'action' always comes *after* the choice (selection) has been formally made.

The incorrect option is 4: (i), (ii), (iii), (iv).
This sequence mistakenly places **(i) Selecting an alternative** as the very first step, suggesting that one chooses a solution before clearly defining the problem (ii). While impulsive decision-making might follow this pattern, it is not a *correct* or systematic process, which is what the question asks for. Most critically, the placement of **(iii) Putting the plan in action** directly after defining the problem (ii) and before identifying alternatives (iv) is highly flawed. Logically, a person cannot execute a plan without first identifying (iv) and selecting (i) one of the available alternatives. The correct managerial methodology demands that one must first analyse the problem, then find the choices, select the best choice, and *then* take action.