[header] How to get through a fight with a close friend [title] Identify the problem. [step] Take some time to think about what exactly happened, what was said, and what the real issue is. The eventual discussion will benefit from your thoughtfulness. 
[substeps] Sometimes this analysis is straightforward and easy, but other times it's not as clear-cut. For example, some fights seem to begin over a casual insult, but upon closer review, it becomes clear that this insult was merely a symptom of a greater, underlying problem.