What are the steps in playing an activated ability?

The correct answer details the comprehensive steps involved in activating an ability in Magic: The Gathering. When a player activates an ability, they first announce the ability they are using. This includes clearly stating which ability is being activated, which sets the stage for subsequent steps.

Next, the player chooses options relevant to that ability if applicable. Some abilities may have multiple choices or effects that the player can select from, which is crucial to properly activating the ability.

The player then identifies the target of the ability, which is essential in many cases. If an ability requires a target, it must be specified at this stage.

Following that, the player distributes any costs associated with the ability. This includes things like choosing how much mana to commit if the ability has a mana cost, or other costs that may need to be paid.

Using mana abilities may involve generating mana from lands or other sources, which could also occur in this step. Once all potential costs are assessed, the player pays all operational costs associated with the ability, ensuring they meet any required game conditions to activate the ability.

Finally, after all costs are paid, the effect of the ability resolves. This structured sequence ensures that all required conditions and steps are understood and followed, allowing for the ability to be