What extra step must a retrovirus go through before entering the lysogenic cycle?

Before entering the lysogenic cycle, a retrovirus must first convert its RNA genome into DNA through the process of reverse transcription. This is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which synthesizes complementary DNA (cDNA) from the viral RNA. Once the viral DNA is formed, it integrates into the host cell's genome, allowing it to enter the lysogenic cycle where it can remain dormant and replicate with the host cell's DNA.