Which of the following is the first step toward proposing solutions effectively?

a. determine the desired outcome.

b. propose a possible solution.

c. act on a possible solution.

d. identify the unresolved problem or dilemma.

Let's order the four actions in order in which they should be done:
 
d. Identify the unresolved problem or dilemma.
a. Determine the desired outcome.
b. Propose a possible solution.
c. Act on a possible solution.

Notice how the different steps depend on the previous steps, for example you can only act on the possible solution, once you know what the solution is.

So the first step will be d. Identify the unresolved problem or dilemma.

The correct answer is (d.) Identify the unresolved problem or dilemma. The first step toward proposing solutions effectively is to first identify the unresolved problem or dilemma. Trace all what's causing the problem in order to come up with a resolution.