What is the first step to create a Forecast Sheet based on selected data?

The first step to create a Forecast Sheet based on selected data is to click the Forecast Sheet button in the Data Ribbon Tab. This option is essential because the Forecast Sheet feature is specifically designed to analyze selected numerical data and generate predictive forecasts based on that data. By accessing the Forecast Sheet button, users initiate a process that automatically assesses the underlying trends and patterns in the selected dataset.

The other options, while related to data manipulation and visualization in Excel, do not directly initiate the creation of a Forecast Sheet. For example, using a line chart is a method of visualizing data but does not facilitate creating a forecast. Click the Create button in the dialog pertains to finalizing settings after initiating a forecast, not the first step. Similarly, removing worksheet protection may be necessary in some scenarios but is not universally required to create a forecast. Therefore, starting the process by selecting the appropriate button from the Data Ribbon Tab is the correct and most straightforward approach to creating a Forecast Sheet.