What is the first step to insert data bars using conditional formatting?

To insert data bars using conditional formatting, the first step is to select the reference cells that contain the data you want to visualize. This selection is crucial because conditional formatting applies formatting styles, such as data bars, based on the values within these cells.

By selecting the appropriate range of cells first, you set the stage for the formatting options to be applied accurately to that data. Once the cells are chosen, you can proceed to access the conditional formatting menu to then apply the data bars and customize their appearance based on the values within the selected cells. Without selecting the reference cells first, there would be no data for the conditional formatting feature to work with, thus making this step fundamental to the process.