which one of the following examples is the first step in the cognitive process called categorization

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To identify the first step in the cognitive process of categorization, it is important to understand what categorization means. Categorization refers to the mental process of grouping similar objects, ideas, or stimuli into specific categories based on their shared characteristics or features.

Now, let's look at some examples that represent the first step in the categorization process:

1. Perception: The first step involved in categorization is perceiving and gathering information about various stimuli from our surroundings. Perception involves using our senses (e.g., vision, hearing) to detect and process sensory information about objects or concepts. For example, when we see different animals, we perceive their characteristics such as shape, size, color, and movement.

2. Attention: Another essential step in categorization is giving our attention to relevant stimuli or aspects of the environment. This step involves focusing our awareness on specific features or qualities that help differentiate objects from one another. For instance, when trying to categorize different types of birds, we might pay attention to their beak shape, color patterns, or flight patterns.

3. Encoding: Encoding refers to the process of transforming sensory information into mental representations. It involves converting raw perceptual data into meaningful and organized concepts within our memory. This encoding step allows us to store and retrieve information about different categories later on. For example, when we encounter a new type of fruit, we encode its unique characteristics (e.g., color, texture, taste) and store it in our memory under the category of "fruit."

Based on these examples, the first step in the cognitive process of categorization is perception. It involves gathering sensory information about objects or concepts through our senses.