The first step is actually level with the deck or landing. This allows the stairs to be attached more firmly to the frame, and offers a sort of "warning track" to people, where the hand rail, also level to the step, guides the user out to the edge of the step instead of abruptly dropping off and requiring one to let go of the rail for a moment.

I make each step suitable for two 6-inch wide deck boards, so that each step is 11 inches deep. None of the boards have to be ripped to width this way, and the deck looks better-planned.