Which step is the first when balancing redox reactions?

The first step in balancing redox reactions is to separate the reaction into half-reactions. This method allows you to focus on the oxidation and reduction processes individually, making it easier to systematically balance each half-reaction before combining them back into a complete balanced equation.

By separating the reaction this way, you can first identify which species are being oxidized and which are being reduced. This clarity is essential because it helps you track the transfer of electrons and adjust the rest of the elements accordingly in subsequent steps.

Following this initial separation, the other steps, such as balancing elements other than hydrogen and oxygen, adding H₂O to balance oxygen, and adding electrons to balance charge, can be approached with greater efficacy, as you have already delineated the processes involved. This structured approach is fundamental to mastering redox reaction balancing.