What is the first step to solve a proportion problem using the unitary method?

The unitary method involves solving problems by finding the value of a single unit first before scaling it to find the total or other proportions. Therefore, identifying one part first is a crucial initial step, as it provides a basis for solving the problem through scaling.

Once the value of one part is known, the next steps can involve determining the values of the other parts by using the established ratio. This approach makes it easier to analyze the relationships involved and facilitates the calculation of the required quantities in proportional problems.

In contrast, finding the total value of the proportion may assume you already have all the necessary information, which isn't typically the case when first approaching a proportion problem. Establishing a relationship between the parts is important but follows after identifying one part, as doing so helps clarify how to move from the known to the unknown. Calculating the average of the two parts does not directly apply to solving proportion problems using the unitary method, where individual unit values are more pertinent.