- Step 1: Convince Macbeth to commit the murder.
Lady Macbeth uses her power of persuasion and manipulation to convince Macbeth to kill King Duncan. She plays on his ambition and desire for power, and argues that killing the king is the only way for him to achieve his goals.
- Step 2: Create the opportunity for Macbeth to commit the murder.
Lady Macbeth takes advantage of the fact that King Duncan is staying at Macbeth's castle, and she arranges for Macbeth to have access to the king's chamber. She also drugs the king's guards so that they will be unable to stop Macbeth from carrying out his plan.
- Step 3: Cover up the murder.
After Macbeth has killed the king, Lady Macbeth helps him to cover up the crime. She places the bloody daggers on the guards and arranges for the king's body to be found, so that it looks like he was killed by the guards.
- Step 4: Deal with the aftermath of the murder.
Lady Macbeth is aware of the psychological consequences of murder and attempts to comfort and support Macbeth as he struggles with guilt and remorse. She tries to convince him that they have done the right thing, and that the benefits outweigh the risks.