The steps

In order to solve a problem and eventually repair a defective item, you must separate the process into steps and follow them one at a time.

1. Know what you are fixing.
2. What is wrong?
3. Eliminate what works.
4. Identify the defective component.
5. Can it be fixed?
6. How is it fixed?
7. Can I fix it?
8. Proceed with the repairs

For the purpose of this tutorial, I will use the example of fixing a pressure washer that just died on me recently.