The first step in overcoming confirmation bias is:

• A. Collecting more data
• B. Reassessing data once bias shows
• C. Becoming aware that the bias exists
• D. Ignoring the bias

Answer: (C)

Recognizing that confirmation bias exists is the essential starting point. Awareness is what allows you to intervene deliberately in your thinking. If you don’t realize you’re biased, you’ll keep interpreting information in a way that only supports your preconceptions, and strategies meant to counter bias won’t take effect. Once you’re aware of the bias, you can actively seek out disconfirming evidence, test competing hypotheses, and invite input that challenges your view. Those corrective steps depend on knowing the bias is at play. Collecting more data or reassessing data after bias shows can help, but they’re only effective once you’ve acknowledged the bias. Ignoring it leaves the pattern unaltered.