How should an ArcMap user create a file geodatabase in a previous version?

To create a file geodatabase in a previous version using ArcMap, the correct approach involves utilizing the Catalog window to right-click on a folder and select the option to create an MDB (Microsoft Access Database). This method specifically addresses the creation of a geodatabase in an earlier version of the software, as file geodatabases were initially supported with the .gdb format but also allowed for the .mdb format in older versions.

Using the Catalog window is a common workflow in ArcMap for managing and creating spatial data structures, and choosing the "Create MDB" option ensures compatibility with those who may still be working on older versions of ArcGIS that primarily utilized Microsoft Access Database formats instead of the newer file geodatabases.

In contrast, creating a file geodatabase through ArcToolbox or attempting to create a version does not address the need for compatibility with a previous version, specifically tailoring your approach to the requirements set forth by the question.