What is the typical first step taken in electrical troubleshooting?

The typical first step in electrical troubleshooting is to conduct a visual inspection of the circuit. This process involves examining the physical components for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires, burnt connectors, or loose connections. A visual inspection can often reveal obvious issues that might not require more complex diagnostic tools or techniques.

Starting with a visual check is efficient because it can quickly highlight the most apparent problems, allowing a technician to focus on specific areas that may need attention. This step lays a foundational understanding of the situation before progressing to more in-depth testing or replacing components, thus saving time and resources in the troubleshooting process.