What is a critical action to take during a go-around procedure?

During a go-around procedure in a Cessna 172, the critical action is to retract the flaps and increase the throttle. This maneuver is essential to ensure that the aircraft can climb away from the runway safely, as the go-around is typically initiated when the approach is not stable for landing.

Retracting the flaps reduces drag, allowing the aircraft to gain speed and altitude more effectively, whereas increasing the throttle provides the necessary engine power for a climb. This combination is critical to transition from a landing approach to a climbing configuration.

Maintaining the current altitude and continuing the descent is counterproductive during a go-around, as the intention is to abandon the landing attempt and climb instead. Increasing flaps and reducing throttle would further exacerbate drag and hinder the go-around performance. Turning off the autopilot and engaging the landing gear does not specifically relate to the essential actions required for a successful go-around, as a go-around can be conducted with the autopilot engaged or the landing gear already deployed.