Which of the following sequences is the correct and complete order of actions to solve a nontrivial rational equation with variable denominators?

Multiply by any convenient number first, then find the LCD only if needed, then check restrictions at the end if a solution appears

Clear denominators by canceling numerators arbitrarily, then factor denominators afterwards to find excluded values

Solve the polynomial formed after multiplying by the LCD and assume all algebraic roots are valid without verifying against the original equation

Determine restrictions by setting denominators to zero, factor denominators and find LCD, multiply every term by LCD, simplify and solve the resulting equation, then check candidate solutions against restrictions by substituting back