To begin constructing a story, your first step is to:
a. present the characters and the situation.
b. thicken the plot and up the stakes.
c. resolve the problem.
d. introduce the problem or conflict.

The correct answer is option A. "present the characters and the situation".

Explanation:

In order to start constructing a story is necessary to present the essential elements of it, which are mainly the characters and the situation that they are going to face as the story unfolds. This traditional writing style helps to build interest about the story, since the audience gets familiar with the characters before they face the conflicts in the climax or before the problem are resolved.

looks alright to me