The first step of the scientific method is the "Question." This step may also be referred to as the "Problem."
Your question should be worded so that it can be answered through experimentation. Keep your question concise and clear so that everyone knows what you are trying to solve. The question should have a purpose...why do you want to know? how does this matter? who wants to know?
This first step should also have a goal. What purpose will the answer to this question serve?