Which stage follows the 'evaluate alternatives' in the purchase decision cycle?

In the purchase decision cycle, after consumers evaluate the alternatives available to them, the logical next step is the actual purchase. This stage is where the consumer decides on a specific product or service based on the evaluations they have made, which can include considerations such as price, features, and brand reputation.

At this point, the consumer has gathered sufficient information and compared different options, leading them to a decisive action. This is an essential moment in the decision-making process, as it culminates the preceding efforts of research and analysis. The successful completion of the purchase stage often sets the path for subsequent actions, like post-purchase evaluation, which assess the satisfaction with the product and influences future purchasing behaviors.

Thus, the purchase is the correct answer following the evaluation of alternatives.