What is the first step to utilize GitLab CI/CD?

The correct approach to utilize GitLab CI/CD begins with defining a pipeline in a .gitlab-ci.yml file. This file serves as the central configuration for GitLab's continuous integration and continuous delivery processes. It dictates how the software should be built, tested, and deployed, specifying jobs, stages, and the overall workflow needed for the CI/CD process.

By defining your pipeline in this file, you provide GitLab with the necessary instructions on the actions it should perform when changes are pushed to the repository. It takes precedence because, without this configuration, GitLab won't know how to execute the CI/CD workflows, regardless of other settings or tools available. The .gitlab-ci.yml file must be placed in the root of the repository for GitLab to recognize and execute it as part of the CI/CD process.

While configuring project settings, installing Docker, or creating a user account are important tasks in managing a project on GitLab, they do not initiate the CI/CD process directly. The pipeline definition is the foundational step that enables automation in software development workflows.