cause and effect essay draft

Cause and Effect Essay Outline: Types, Examples and Writing Tips

20 June, 2020

9 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

This is a complete guide on writing cause and effect essays. Find a link to our essay sample at the end. Let's get started!

What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

A cause and effect essay is the type of paper that the author is using to analyze the causes and effects of a particular action or event. A curriculum usually includes this type of exercise to test your ability to understand the logic of certain events or actions.

If you can see the logic behind cause and effect in the world around you, you will encounter fewer problems when writing. If not, writing this kind of paper will give you the chance to improve your skillset and your brain’s ability to reason.

“Shallow men believe in luck or in circumstance. Strong men believe in cause and effect.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

In this article, the  Handmade Writing team will find out how to create an outline for your cause and effect essay – the key to successful essay writing.

Types of the Cause and Effect Essay

Before writing this kind of essay, you need to draft the structure. A good structure will result in a good paper, so it’s important to have a plan before you start. But remember , there’s no need to reinvent the wheel: just about every type of structure has already been formulated by someone.

If you are still unsure about the definition of an essay, you can take a look at our guide:  What is an Essay?

Generally speaking, there are three types of cause and effect essays. We usually differentiate them by the number of and relationships between the different causes and the effects. Let’s take a quick look at these three different cases:

1. Many causes, one effect

This kind of essay illustrates how different causes can lead to one effect. The idea here is to try and examine a variety of causes, preferably ones that come from different fields, and prove how they contributed to a particular effect. If you are writing about World War I, for example, mention the political, cultural, and historical factors that led to the great war.

By examining a range of fundamental causes, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge about the topic.

Here is how to structure this type of essay:

• Introduction
• Cause #3 (and so on…)
• The effect of the causes

2. One cause, many effects

This type of cause and effect essay is constructed to show the various effects of a particular event, problem, or decision. Once again, you will have to demonstrate your comprehensive knowledge and analytical mastery of the field. There is no need to persuade the reader or present your argument . When writing this kind of essay, in-depth knowledge of the problem or event’s roots will be of great benefit. If you know why it happened, it will be much easier to write about its effects.

Here is the structure for this kind of essay:

• Effect #3 (and so on…)

3. Chain of causes and effects

This is the most challenging type. You need to maintain a chain of logic that demonstrates a sequence of actions and consequences, leading to the end of the chain. Although this is usually the most interesting kind of cause and effect essay, it can also be the most difficult to write.

Here is the outline structure:

• Effect #1 = Cause #2
• Effect #2 = Cause #3
• Effect #3 = Cause #4 (and so on…)

Cause and Effect Essay Outline Example

Let’s take a look at an example. Below, you will find an outline for the topic “The causes of obesity” (Type 1) :

As you can see, we used a blended strategy here. When writing about the ever-increasing consumption of unhealthy food, it is logical to talk about the marketing strategies that encourage people to buy fast food. If you are discussing fitness trainers, it is important to mention that people need to be checked by a doctor more often, etc.

In case you face some issues with writing your Cause and Effect essay, you can always count on our Essay Writers !

How do I start writing once I have drafted the structure?

If you start by structuring each paragraph and collecting suitable examples, the writing process will be much simpler. The final essay might not come up as a classic five paragraph essay – it all depends on the cause-effect chain and the number of statements of your essay.

In the Introduction, try to give the reader a general idea of what the cause and effect essay will contain. For an experienced reader, a thesis statement will be an indication that you know what you are writing about. It is also important to emphasize how and why this problem is relevant to modern life. If you ever need to write about the Caribbean crisis, for instance, state that the effects of the Cold War are still apparent in contemporary global politics. 

Related Post: How to write an Essay introduction | How to write a Thesis statement

In the Body, provide plenty of details about what causes led to the effects. Once again, if you have already assembled all the causes and effects with their relevant examples when writing your plan, you shouldn’t have any problems. But, there are some things to which you must pay particular attention. To begin with, try to make each paragraph the same length: it looks better visually. Then, try to avoid weak or unconvincing causes. This is a common mistake, and the reader will quickly realize that you are just trying to write enough characters to reach the required word count.

Moreover, you need to make sure that your causes are actually linked to their effects. This is particularly important when you write a “chained” cause and effect essay (type 3) . You need to be able to demonstrate that each cause was actually relevant to the final result. As I mentioned before, writing the Body without preparing a thorough and logical outline is often an omission.

The Conclusion must be a summary of the thesis statement that you proposed in the Introduction. An effective Conclusion means that you have a well-developed understanding of the subject. Notably, writing the Conclusion can be one of the most challenging parts of this kind of project. You typically write the Conclusion once you have finished the Body, but in practice, you will sometimes find that a well-written conclusion will reveal a few mistakes of logic in the body!

Cause and Effect Essay Sample

Be sure to check the sample essay, completed by our writers. Use it as an example to write your own cause and effect essay. Link: Cause and effect essay sample: Advertising ethic issues .

Tips and Common Mistakes from Our Expert Writers

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Cause And Effect Essay Writing

Cause And Effect Essay Outline

Learn How to Create a Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Published on: Mar 19, 2020

Last updated on: Oct 26, 2024

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Writing a cause and effect essay can be an engaging and insightful task. It allows you to look deeper into the complicated connections between events, phenomena, and their consequences. 

However, before diving into the essay writing process, it's essential to lay a solid foundation with a well-structured outline. 

In this guide, we'll explore the process of creating a good cause and effect essay outline in simple steps.

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What is Cause and Effect Writing?

A cause and effect essay is a type of essay that examines the reasons (causes) behind an event or phenomenon and explores the outcomes (effects) that result from it. These essays aim to uncover the relationships between various occurrences, whether they are societal, environmental, or personal.

The Importance of Outlining 

• Outlining helps clarify your thoughts and organize your ideas in a logical manner.
• It provides a framework for your essay, ensuring that each point flows smoothly into the next.
• Outlining keeps you focused on your main points and prevents you from getting sidetracked.
• It saves time by helping you identify gaps in your argument and address them before you start academic writing.
• Outlining ensures that your essay is coherent and cohesive, making it easier for readers to follow your train of thought.

Cause and Effect Essay Structure 

In a cause and effect essay, you have the flexibility to structure your essay in a way that best suits your topic and argument. Here are a few common approaches to consider:

Single Cause, Single Effect

Each paragraph focuses on one cause and its corresponding effect. This approach provides clarity and allows for in-depth exploration of each cause-effect relationship.

Single Cause, Multiple Effects

In this structure, you dedicate a paragraph to each cause and then discuss multiple effects stemming from that cause. This allows for a comprehensive analysis of the various outcomes resulting from a single cause.

Multiple Causes, Single Effect

Alternatively, you can examine multiple causes that contribute to a single effect. This approach enables you to highlight the interconnectedness of different factors leading to a particular outcome.

Chain Structure

This method involves tracing a chain of causes and effects, where one event leads to another in a sequential manner. Each paragraph explores a link in the causal chain, providing a clear understanding of the progression of events.

Note: Adjust the number of body paragraphs based on the depth and complexity of your analysis to maintain coherence and effectiveness.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay Outline?

Here's a step-by-step process for creating a cause and effect essay outline.

Step 1: Choose a Topic

Select a topic that allows you to explore meaningful cause-effect relationships. Consider issues that have multiple causes and effects, such as environmental pollution, technological advancements, or social trends.

Example: Topic - "The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health"

Step 2: Identify Causes and Effects

Brainstorm potential causes and effects related to your chosen topic. Consider both immediate and underlying causes, as well as short-term and long-term effects.

Step 3: Determine Your Thesis Statement

Craft a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main causes and effects you will explore in your essay. Your thesis should provide a roadmap for your readers and guide the direction of your analysis.

Example: 

Step 4: Organize Your Outline

Structure your outline in a logical manner, with distinct sections for your cause and effect essay introduction , body paragraphs, and conclusion . Each section should serve a specific purpose and contribute to the overall coherence of your essay.

Step 5: Develop Each Section of the Outline

Flesh out each section of your outline by incorporating a strong topic sentence that clearly introduces the cause or effect. Follow this with detailed explanations that look into the why and how of each point. Support your claims with relevant supporting evidence, whether it's real-life examples, statistics, or expert opinions. 

Ensuring the relevance and strength of your examples is important to solidify the connection between causes and effects. It also provides strong support for your cause and effect essay thesis statement.

Example (Body Paragraph):

Step 6: Use Transitional Words 

Use transition words and phrases to create seamless transitions between paragraphs and sections of your outline. This helps maintain coherence and ensures that your ideas flow logically from one point to the next.

Example:     

Transitional Words: Furthermore, Additionally, Moreover, Consequently, Therefore

Step 7: Review and Revise Your Outline

Review your outline for clarity, coherence, and completeness. Ensure that each section aligns with your thesis statement and contributes to the overall argument of your essay. Make revisions as needed to improve the structure and organization of your outline.

Step 8: Finalize Your Outline

Once you are satisfied with the content and structure of your outline, finalize it by formatting it according to your preferred style (e.g., bullet points, Roman numerals). Your outline should be a comprehensive roadmap for drafting your cause and effect essay.

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Cause and Effect Essay Outline Examples

Here are some cause and effect essay outline pdf samples to give you an idea of how to structure your essay.

Cause And Effect Essay Outline Template

Cause And Effect Essay Outline College

Cause And Effect Essay Outline Global Warming

Cause And Effect Essay Topics

Here are some trending and thought-provoking cause and effect essay topics:

• The Impact of Climate Change on Global Weather Patterns
• The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health Among Adolescents
• The Causes and Consequences of Income Inequality in Modern Society
• The Relationship Between Junk Food Consumption and Obesity Rates
• The Impact of Technology on Interpersonal Communication Skills
• The Causes of Stress in College Students and Its Effects on Academic Performance
• The Effects of Deforestation on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Stability
• The Causes and Effects of Rising Healthcare Costs in Developed Countries
• The Relationship Between Air Pollution and Respiratory Diseases
• The Impact of Single-Parent Households on Child Development and Behavior

For more ideas check out our cause and effect essay topics blog and get inspired!

To Sum it Up!

Drafting a well-structured outline is the first step toward writing a compelling cause and effect essay. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog, you can effectively organize your ideas, present coherent arguments, and engage your readers with insightful analysis. 

At CollegeEssay.org , we provide the perfect solution for your essay-writing problems. Our cause and effect essay writing service is just what you need to craft an exceptional essay. 

However, if you are on a tight deadline and want a quick solution, our AI essay generator can help you create a fantastic essay outline.

For professional assistance reach out and ask us to write my college essay now!

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Cause And Effect Essay Guide

Cause And Effect Essay Examples

Best Cause and Effect Essay Examples To Get Inspiration + Simple Tips

People also read

How To Write A Cause and Effect Essay - Outline & Examples

230+ Cause and Effect Essay Topics for Students

How to Create a Cause and Effect Outline - An Easy Guide

You need to write a cause and effect essay for your assignment. Well, where should you start?

Establishing a relationship between causes and effects is no simple task. You need to ensure logical connections between variables with credible evidence.

However, don't get overwhelmed by the sound of it. You can start by reading some great cause and effect essay examples.

In this blog, you can read cause and effect essays to get inspiration and learn how to write them. With these resources, you'll be able to start writing an awesome cause and effect paper.

Let’s dive in!

• 1. What is a Cause and Effect Essay?
• 2. Cause and Effect Essay Examples for Students
• 3. Free Cause and Effect Essay Samples
• 4. Cause and Effect Essay Topics
• 5. Tips For Writing a Good Cause and Effect Essay

What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

A cause and effect essay explores why things happen (causes) and what happens as a result (effects). This type of essay aims to uncover the connections between events, actions, or phenomena. It helps readers understand the reasons behind certain outcomes.

In a cause and effect essay, you typically:

• Identify the Cause: Explain the event or action that initiates a chain of events. This is the "cause."
• Discuss the Effect: Describe the consequences or outcomes resulting from the cause.
• Analyze the Relationship: Clarify how the cause leads to the effect, showing the cause-and-effect link.

Cause and effect essays are common in various academic disciplines. For instance, studies in sciences, history, and the social sciences rely on essential cause and effect questions. For instance, "what are the effects of climate change?", or "what are the causes of poverty?"

Now that you know what a cause and effect is, let’s read some examples.

Cause and Effect Essay Examples for Students

Here is an example of a well-written cause and effect essay on social media. Let’s analyze it in parts to learn why it is good and how you can write an effective essay yourself.

The essay begins with a compelling hook that grabs the reader's attention. It presents a brief overview of the topic clearly and concisely. The essay introduction covers the issue and ends with a strong thesis statement , stating the essay's main argument – that excessive use of social media can negatively impact mental health.

The first body paragraph sets the stage by discussing the first cause in the topic sentence - excessive social media use. It provides data and statistics to support the claim, which makes the argument more compelling. The analysis highlights the addictive nature of social media and its impact on users. This clear and evidence-based explanation prepares the reader for the cause-and-effect relationship to be discussed.

The second body paragraph effectively explores the effect of excessive social media use, which is increased anxiety and depression. It provides a clear cause-and-effect relationship, with studies backing the claims. The paragraph is well-structured and uses relatable examples, making the argument more persuasive.

The third body paragraph effectively introduces the second cause, which is social comparison and FOMO. It explains the concept clearly and provides relatable examples. It points out the relevance of this cause in the context of social media's impact on mental health, preparing the reader for the subsequent effect to be discussed.

The fourth body paragraph effectively explores the second effect of social comparison and FOMO, which is isolation and decreased self-esteem. It provides real-world consequences and uses relatable examples.

The conclusion effectively summarizes the key points discussed in the essay. It restates the thesis statement and offers practical solutions, demonstrating a well-rounded understanding of the topic. The analysis emphasizes the significance of the conclusion in leaving the reader with a call to action or reflection on the essay's central theme.

This essay follows this clear cause and effect essay structure to convey the message effectively:

Read our cause and effect essay outline blog to learn more about how to structure your cause and effect essay effectively.

Free Cause and Effect Essay Samples

The analysis of the essay above is a good start to understanding how the paragraphs in a cause and effect essay are structured. You can read and analyze more cause and effect essay examples pdf to get a better understanding:

Cause And Effect Essay Examples Social Media

Cause And Effect Essay Examples Smoking

Cause And Effect Essay Examples For 5th Grade

Cause And Effect Essay Examples For 6th Grade

Thesis Statement For A Cause And Effect Essay Examples

Cause and Effect Essay Elementary School

Cause and Effect Essay Example For College Students

Short Cause and Effect Essay Example

Cause and Effect Essay Example for High School

Cause And Effect Essay Example IELTS

Bullying Cause and Effect Essay Example

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Wondering which topic to write your essay on? Here is a list of cause and effect essay topic ideas to help you out.

• The Effects of Social Media on Real Social Networks
• The Causes And Effects of Cyberbullying
• The Causes And Effects of Global Warming
• The Causes And Effects of WW2
• The Causes And Effects of Racism
• The Causes And Effects of Homelessness
• The Causes and Effects of Parental Divorce on Children.
• The Causes and Effects of Drug Addiction
• The Impact of Technology on Education
• The Causes and Consequences of Income Inequality

Need more topics? Check out our list of 150+ cause and effect essay topics to get more interesting ideas.

Tips For Writing a Good Cause and Effect Essay

Reading and following the examples above can help you write a good essay. However, you can make your essay even better by following these tips.

• Choose a Clear and Manageable Topic: Select a topic that you can explore thoroughly within the essay's word limit. A narrowly defined topic will make it easier to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
• Research and Gather Evidence: Gather relevant data, statistics, examples, and expert opinions to support your arguments. Strong evidence enhances the credibility of your essay.
• Outline Your Essay: Create a structured outline that outlines the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. This will provide a clear roadmap for your essay and help you present causes and effects clearly and coherently.
• Transitional Phrases: Use transitional words and phrases like "because," "due to," "as a result," "consequently," and "therefore" to connect causes and effects within your sentences and paragraphs.
• Support Each Point: Dedicate a separate paragraph to each cause and effect. Provide in-depth explanations, examples, and evidence for each point.
• Proofread and Edit: After completing the initial draft, carefully proofread your essay for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Additionally, review the content for clarity, coherence, and flow.
• Peer Review: Seek feedback from a peer or someone familiar with the topic to gain an outside perspective. They can help identify any areas that need improvement.
• Stay Focused: Avoid going off-topic or including irrelevant information. Stick to the causes and effects you've outlined in your thesis statement.
• Revise as Needed: Don't hesitate to make revisions and improvements as needed. The process of revising and refining your essay is essential for producing a high-quality final product.

Cause and effect essays are important for comprehending the intricate relationships that shape our world. With the help of the examples and tips above, you can confidently get started on your essay.

If you still need further help, you can hire a professional writer to help you out. At MyPerfectWords.com , we’ve got experienced and qualified essay writers who can help you write an excellent essay on any topic and for all academic levels.

Simply say ' help me do my essay ' and we will provide the professional support you need to get a well-written essay.

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