What do you check if the screen is blank but the computer appears to be powered on?

When the screen is blank but the computer seems to be powered on, verifying that the monitor is connected properly and powered on, along with checking for any video cable issues, is a crucial step in troubleshooting. This action directly addresses the most common reasons for a blank screen that can occur when the computer is operational.

Ensuring the monitor is connected properly eliminates the possibility of a loose connection, which can prevent the display from receiving a signal. Additionally, confirming that the monitor itself is powered on rules out the chance that the issue lies with the display rather than the computer itself. Furthermore, inspecting the video cables for any damage or loose connections ensures that the signal from the computer is being transmitted correctly to the monitor.

This approach is systematic and provides a foundation for diagnosing the problem, as the most straightforward issues should be addressed first before moving on to more complex solutions.