Answer:
b. the identification of a difference between the actual and desired state of affairs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Problem-solving: The term problem solving is defined as finding a way to reach a specified goal irrespective of the present condition. Here the present condition refers to be either far from the goal, or not directed towards the goal. In other words, a person's problem-solving tendency requires the process of discovering, analyzing and then solving the problem.
In the question above, the first step in problem-solving is the identification of a difference between the actual and desired state of affairs.