What are three primary steps in becoming certified to scuba dive?

First, you would develop knowledge in-person or online for the basics of diving, dive language, tips for choosing gear and equipment, affects of diving on the body, planning dive trips, etc.  Second, you would spend time with practice dives in a swimming pool or shallow body of water, gain hands-on experience with dive gear, practice for emergencies, and more.  Third, you would dive in open water with the dive instructor to gain further knowledge of time under water.