What is the appropriate first analytical step when distinguishing constructive marfūʿ from mawqūf?

Isnād, Matn, Explicit and Constructive Marfūʿ, and Mawqūf

• The intended attribution and the formula for speech, action, or approval
• Count only the words of the matn
• Treat every Companion statement as marfūʿ
• Consider all marfūʿ reports authentic and all mawqūf reports weak