Understand the cell cycle: The cell cycle consists of interphase and the mitotic phase. Interphase is further divided into G1, S, and G2 phases.
Identify the purpose of each phase: The G1 phase is for cell growth, the S phase is for DNA replication, and the G2 phase is for preparation for mitosis.
Recognize that DNA replication is a crucial step that ensures each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
Recall that the S phase, or synthesis phase, is specifically dedicated to the replication of DNA, where the entire genome is duplicated.
Conclude that DNA replication does not occur during mitosis (prophase, metaphase) or cytokinesis, but specifically during the S phase of interphase.