In the "analyzing the problem" step in the problem solving process, one should evaluate the causes, effects, and symptoms of the problem.

Knowing what the problem is is the initial step in solving it. This is what you call Root Cause Analysis. Knowing what happened, why it happened, and determining symptoms as well as determining the likelihood of it recurring makes for a more effective method of resolving a problem.

When you analyze a problem, you're able to find more than one possible solution. With all the data you've gathered, you'll be able to select the best solution possible.