how to write an essay on effect

How To Write A Cause And Effect Essay: Topics, Structure, Examples

How To Write A Cause And Effect Essay?

If you're a student, chances are you'll encounter a cause and effect essay during your studies. This type of essay is all about exploring the relationship between a specific event (the cause) and its outcomes (the effects). But don't worry, we've got you covered with this easy-to-follow guide that breaks down everything you need to know about what is cause and effect essay and the steps for writing it. So get set to dive into the fascinating world of cause and effect as we equip you with the skills to ace this writing task like a pro!

What is a Cause and Effect Essay: Unique Characteristics from Other Essays

A cause and effect essay is a unique type of essay that focuses on examining the reasons (causes) behind an event or phenomenon and the resulting consequences (effects) that occur as a result. What sets it apart from other essays is its emphasis on establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship between two or more variables.

In a cause and effect essay, the writer analyzes and explains the connections between the causes and effects, providing evidence and supporting details to illustrate the relationship. This type of essay requires critical thinking, logical reasoning, and a structured approach to present the causal chain effectively.

Unlike descriptive or narrative essays that focus on storytelling or presenting facts, cause and effect essays delve into the underlying causes and explore the outcomes, aiming to inform and educate the reader about the relationships between different factors.

cause and effect examples

Different Types of Cause and Effect Essay Structure

A cause and effect essay is a type of academic writing that explores the reasons (causes) and outcomes (effects) of a particular event, situation, or phenomenon. It aims to analyze the relationship between these causes and effects, providing a comprehensive understanding of how one factor leads to another. When structuring a cause and effect essay, there are several approaches you can take. Here are three common types of cause and effect essay structure from our experts:

  • Block Structure:
  • Introduction: Introduce the topic and provide background information.
  • Body Paragraph 1: Present the causes and their supporting details.
  • Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the effects and provide evidence or examples.
  • Conclusion: Summarize the main points and emphasize the overall significance.
  • Chain Structure:
  • Introduction: Introduce the topic and its importance.
  • Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a specific cause and its subsequent effects, forming a chain-like progression.
  • Cause 1: Explain the first cause and its effects.
  • Cause 2: Describe the second cause and its effects, which may also include the effects of Cause 1.
  • Cause 3: Discuss the third cause and its effects, which may include the effects of Causes 1 and 2.

Continue this pattern for additional causes if necessary.

  • Conclusion: Summarize the main causes and effects, highlighting their interconnections.
  • Causal Chain Structure:
  • Introduction: Introduce the topic and provide context.
  • Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a specific cause and effect, examining the relationships between them.
  • Cause 1: Explain the first cause and its immediate effect(s).
  • Cause 2: Discuss the second cause, which is triggered by the effect(s) of Cause 1 and its subsequent effect(s).
  • Cause 3: Describe the third cause, influenced by the effect(s) of Cause 2 and its further effect(s).

Continue this pattern for additional causes and effects.

  • Conclusion: Summarize the causal chain, emphasizing the overall significance and potential long-term effects.

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how to write an essay on effect

Cause and Effect Essay Outline

cause and effect outline

I. Introduction

A. Explanation of cause and effect essays

B. Hook: 'Have you ever wondered how excessive screen time affects academic performance?'

C. Thesis statement: Excessive screen time negatively impacts academic performance due to decreased focus, impaired cognitive abilities, and reduced study time.

II. Body Paragraph 1: Cause 1 - Decreased Focus

A. Topic sentence: Excessive screen time leads to decreased focus.

B. Explanation: Constant exposure to screens can overstimulate the brain and make it harder to concentrate on academic tasks.

C. Example: Studies have shown that students who spend excessive time on electronic devices during study sessions often struggle to maintain their focus, leading to reduced productivity and lower academic performance.

III. Body Paragraph 2: Cause 2 - Impaired Cognitive Abilities

A. Topic sentence: Excessive screen time impairs cognitive abilities.

B. Explanation: Prolonged screen usage can negatively impact cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and critical thinking skills.

C. Example: Research has indicated that excessive screen time, particularly in the form of video games or social media, can hinder the development of cognitive abilities, making it more difficult for students to comprehend complex concepts and retain information.

IV. Body Paragraph 3: Cause 3 - Reduced Study Time

A. Topic sentence: Excessive screen time reduces the amount of time dedicated to studying.

B. Explanation: The allure of screens can distract students and tempt them away from their academic responsibilities.

C. Example: A study conducted at XYZ University found that students who spent more time on social media or streaming platforms were more likely to allocate less time to study, resulting in poor performance on exams and assignments.

V. Conclusion

A. Restate the thesis statement: Excessive screen time has a detrimental effect on academic performance due to decreased focus, impaired cognitive abilities, and reduced study time.

B. Recap the main points discussed in each body paragraph.

C. Final thoughts: Encourage students to manage their screen time wisely to optimize their academic success.

10 Cause and Effect Essay Topics

If you are struggling to come up with a topic for your essay, consider one of these ten great cause and effect essay ideas below. Feel free to also hit us up with your ' write my essay ' request for a professionally crafted paper on your chosen topic.

Discuss the Effects of Social Media on Face-to-Face Communication

Social media has become a ubiquitous part of modern society, with platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram connecting people from all over the world. However, as social media usage has increased, so has concern over its impact on face-to-face communication. Some argue that social media has made it easier for people to stay in touch with friends and family, regardless of distance. Others worry that social media has led to a decline in the quality of face-to-face interactions, with people spending more time on their phones than engaging with those around them. This topic is ripe for exploration and analysis.

Analyze the Reasons Behind the Increased Use of Smartphones by Children

Smartphones have become a ubiquitous part of modern life, with people of all ages relying on them for communication, entertainment, and information. However, there has been a recent trend of children using smartphones at increasingly young ages. Some argue that smartphones can be a valuable tool for education and communication, while others worry that they can be addictive and harmful to children's development. This topic is worth exploring in depth, with a focus on the factors that have led to this trend and its potential long-term effects.

Explore the Impacts of Climate Change on the Natural Environment

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today, with rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events all having profound impacts on the natural environment. This topic is complex and multifaceted, with a range of potential causes and effects to explore. Some of the key areas to consider might include the impact of climate change on ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources, as well as the potential long-term consequences for human societies.

Investigate the Effects of Pollution on Human Health

Pollution is a major problem in many parts of the world, with air, water, and soil pollution all having serious consequences for human health. This topic is worth exploring in depth, with a focus on the specific ways in which pollution can impact different aspects of human health, including respiratory health, cardiovascular health, and mental health. Some of the key factors to consider might include the impact of pollution on vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, as well as potential strategies for prevention and mitigation.

Discuss How Social Isolation Can Lead to Mental Health Issues

Social isolation is a growing problem in many parts of the world, with people of all ages and backgrounds feeling increasingly disconnected from their communities and social networks. This topic is worth exploring in depth, with a focus on the specific ways in which social isolation can impact mental health. Some of the key areas to consider might include the impact of social isolation on depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, as well as potential strategies for prevention and treatment.

Analyze the Reasons Behind the Rise of Populism in Politics

Populism has become an increasingly prominent force in politics in recent years, with populist politicians and movements gaining ground in many parts of the world. This topic is complex and multifaceted, with a range of potential causes and effects to explore. Some of the key areas to consider might include the impact of economic inequality, globalization, and cultural change on the rise of populism, as well as potential strategies for addressing this trend.

Explore the Impacts of the Internet on the Traditional Media Industry

The internet has had a profound impact on the media industry, with traditional forms of media such as newspapers, television, and radio facing increasing competition from online sources. This topic is worth exploring in depth, with a focus on the specific ways in which the internet has disrupted traditional media models. Some of the key areas to consider might include the impact of social media on news consumption, the rise of citizen journalism, and the challenges facing traditional media outlets in the digital age.

Examine the Factors that Lead to the Growth of Online Shopping

Online shopping has become an increasingly popular way for people to purchase goods and services, with e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay dominating the retail landscape. This topic is worth exploring in depth, with a focus on the specific factors that have contributed to the growth of online shopping. Some of the key areas to consider might include the impact of convenience and accessibility, the rise of mobile devices, and the changing demographics of consumers.

Investigate the Effects of Globalization on Local Industries

Globalization has had a profound impact on the world economy, with goods, services, and capital flowing more freely across borders than ever before. This topic is worth exploring in depth, with a focus on the specific ways in which globalization has affected local industries. Some of the key areas to consider might include the impact of outsourcing and offshoring on employment, the role of multinational corporations in shaping local economies, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of globalization for different regions of the world.

Analyze The Impact of Social Media on Sleep Quality

Analyzing the impact of social media on sleep quality requires examining various factors related to social media usage and its effects on sleep patterns. Investigate the correlation between the amount of time individuals spend on social media platforms and their sleep quality. Excessive use of social media may lead to delayed bedtime, shorter sleep duration, or disrupted sleep. You can also explore the impact of blue light emitted by electronic devices, including smartphones and tablets, which are commonly used for social media browsing.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: Step-by-Step Guide

In this section, we will unravel the essential elements of how to write a cause and effect essay, equipping you with the tips to present a logical and well-supported argument.

how to write a cause and effect essay

Step 1: Choose a Topic

The first step in writing a great cause and effect examples essay is choosing the right topic. Consider something that interests you and is relevant to your academic field. The cause and effect essay topics should also be specific enough to allow for in-depth analysis in your assignment.

Step 2: Conduct Research

Once you have identified your topic, it is important to do extensive research to gather sufficient information to support your arguments. Use scholarly sources such as academic journals, books, or reputable websites to do your research.

Step 3: Develop a Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the core idea of your essay and should be presented in the opening paragraph. It is a single sentence that clearly states the cause and effect relationship you will be discussing in the essay. A well-crafted thesis statement is critical to the success of your essay.

Step 4: Create an Outline

Creating a cause and effect essay outline is a crucial element of the writing process. It helps in organizing your thoughts and providing a clear structure for your essay. Divide your essay into an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Step 5: Write the Introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph of your essay, and it should catch the reader's attention and provide background information on the topic at hand. The introduction should also include the thesis statement.

Step 6: Write the Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs should discuss the causes and effects of the event or topic at hand. Each paragraph should discuss one specific cause or effect followed by supporting evidence from your research.

Step 7: Write the Conclusion

The cause and effect essay conclusion should restate the thesis statement and provide a summary of your arguments. It should also demonstrate the relationship between the various causes and effects you have discussed.

Step 8: Proofread and Edit

The final step is to proofread and edit your essay. Ensure that your grammar, spelling, and punctuation are all correct and that your ideas are presented in a clear and concise manner.

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how to write an essay on effect

Cause and Effect Essay Examples

You can order an essay from professional writers have meticulously crafted a sample essay that delves into the cause and effect relationship between air pollution on human health.

Title: The Effects of Air Pollution on Human Health

Air pollution is a prevalent issue that has detrimental effects on human health. This essay will explore the multiple causes and consequences of air pollution, highlighting the interconnectedness between environmental factors and public well-being.

The primary cause of air pollution is industrial emissions. Factories and power plants release harmful pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, into the atmosphere. These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog, which can be inhaled by individuals, leading to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Furthermore, vehicular emissions also contribute significantly to air pollution, particularly in urban areas with heavy traffic congestion.

The effects of air pollution on human health are alarming. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can cause respiratory diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Studies have also linked air pollution to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, children and the elderly are more susceptible to the harmful effects of air pollution, as their immune systems are less robust.

Moreover, air pollution has broader societal consequences. It contributes to the degradation of ecosystems, reduces crop yields, and harms biodiversity. It also poses economic burdens by increasing healthcare costs and decreasing productivity due to illnesses and absenteeism.

In conclusion, air pollution has far-reaching effects on human health and the environment. The causes, including industrial emissions and vehicular pollution, directly impact the quality of the air we breathe. The consequences, such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems, highlight the urgent need for measures to mitigate and control air pollution. Efforts to reduce emissions, promote cleaner technologies, and raise public awareness are crucial steps toward safeguarding human health and preserving the environment for future generations.

A Final Perspective

In our exploration of cause and effect essays, we've covered all the essentials. We've defined what is a cause and effect essay, delved into good cause and effect essay topics, and taken a closer look at its structure.

Now, here's the deal: if you put in the time and effort to prepare, your professor will definitely notice and give you the grade you deserve. But hey, we get it! Sometimes these tasks can be confusing and eat up all your time. If that's the case, no worries! You can easily hire an essay writer to lend a hand and enjoy some well-deserved free time without the stress of assignments.

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How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: Full Guide

how to write an essay on effect

Ever wondered how things are connected in our world? Think of the butterfly effect—where a butterfly's wings in Brazil can set off a tornado in Texas. It's a quirky idea, but it shows how events are intertwined. Writing a cause and effect essay is like unraveling these connections, connecting the dots to reveal how things influence each other and shape our experiences.

In this guide, experts from our paper writing service will explore the concept of causality and share practical tips for creating great cause and effect essays. These essays won't just provide information—they'll leave a lasting impression on your readers.

What Is a Cause and Effect Essay

A cause and effect essay is a form of writing that aims to explore and explain the relationships between different events, actions, or circumstances. The central idea is to investigate why certain things happen (causes) and what results from those occurrences (effects). It's like peeling back the layers to reveal the interconnectedness of events, understanding the domino effect in the narrative of life.

What is a Cause and Effect Essay

Here's a breakdown of the key components:

  • Causes: These are the factors or events that initiate a particular situation. They are the reasons behind why something occurs. For instance, if you're exploring the cause of obesity, factors like unhealthy eating habits and lack of physical activity could be identified as causes.
  • Effects: The effects are the outcomes or consequences that result from the identified causes. Following the obesity example, effects could include health issues, reduced quality of life, or increased healthcare costs.
  • Connection: The heart of a cause and effect essay lies in demonstrating the link between causes and effects. It's not just about listing events but explaining how one event leads to another in a logical and coherent manner.

When crafting such an essay, you're essentially acting as a storyteller and investigator rolled into one. Your goal is to guide the reader through the web of interconnected events, providing insights into the 'why' and 'what happens next.'

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay with Easy Steps

Understanding how to write a cause and effect essay is like putting together a puzzle. Here are ten simple steps to help you write an engaging essay that looks into how things are connected.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay with Easy Steps

1. Select a Specific Topic

  • Choose a cause and effect relationship that sparks your interest.
  • Ensure your topic is focused and manageable for a thorough exploration.

2. Explore Causal Links

  • Conduct thorough research to uncover hidden connections and supporting evidence.
  • Look beyond the obvious to identify intricate relationships between causes and effects.

3. Craft a Clear Thesis Statement

  • Develop a precise thesis that clearly articulates the main cause and the resulting effects.
  • Your thesis serves as the roadmap for your essay, guiding readers through your analysis.

4. Organize Chronologically or by Significance

  • Structure your essay in a logical order, either chronologically or by the significance of events.
  • This organization enhances clarity and helps readers follow the cause-and-effect progression.

5. Utilize Transitional Phrases

  • Employ transition words and phrases to ensure seamless flow between causes and effects.
  • Clear transitions enhance readability and strengthen the coherence of your essay.

6. Support Arguments with Credible Evidence

  • Back up your claims with relevant data, examples, and statistics.
  • Strong evidence adds credibility to your analysis and reinforces the cause-and-effect relationships you present.

7. Illustrate Chain Reactions

  • Show how a single cause can trigger a chain of effects, and vice versa.
  • Illustrate the ripple effects to emphasize the complexity of the relationships.

8. Analyze Root Causes

  • Move beyond surface-level explanations and explore the underlying factors contributing to the cause-and-effect scenario.
  • Deep analysis adds depth and nuance to your essay.

9. Consider Alternative Causes

  • Address potential counterarguments to showcase a comprehensive understanding.
  • Acknowledging alternative causes strengthens your essay's overall credibility.

10. Conclude with Impact

  • Summarize key points and emphasize the broader significance of your analysis.
  • Leave your readers with a thought-provoking conclusion that ties together the cause-and-effect relationships explored in your essay.

Cause and Effect Essay Structure Types

When setting up your essay, you can choose from different structures to make it organized. Let's look at two common types of cause and effect essay structures:

Cause and Effect Essay Structure Types

  • Block Structure:

The block structure is a clear and organized way to present causes and effects in your essay. Here, you dedicate one section to discussing all the causes, covering multiple causes within each category. After that, you have another section to explore all the effects. This separation makes your ideas easy to understand.

Using the block structure allows you to dive deep into each category, thoroughly looking at causes and effects separately. It's handy when you want to give a detailed analysis and show the importance of each part of the causal relationship. This way, readers can fully grasp each element before moving on.

  • Chain Structure:

On the other hand, the chain structure focuses on how events are connected and create ripple effects. It highlights how one cause leads to a specific effect, and that effect becomes the cause of more effects in an ongoing chain. This method is potent for illustrating the complexity of causal relationships.

The chain structure works well when you want to emphasize the sequence of events or deal with intricate cause-and-effect scenarios. It allows you to show how actions trigger a series of reactions, displaying the domino effect that leads to a specific outcome.

Regardless of the structural style you choose, if you require assistance with your academic paper, reach out to us with your ' write my paper for me ' request. Our experienced team is ready to tailor your paper to your specific requirements and ensure its excellence.

Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Creating an effective cause and effect essay begins with a well-structured outline. This roadmap helps you organize your thoughts, maintain a logical flow, and ensure that your essay effectively conveys the causal relationships between events. Below, we'll outline the key components of the essay along with examples:

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Start with an engaging statement or fact. Example: 'Did you know that stress can significantly impact your overall health?'
  • Background Information: Provide context for your topic. Example: 'In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an increasingly prevalent issue.'
  • Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main cause and its corresponding effects. Example: 'This essay will explore the causes of stress and their profound negative effects on physical and mental health.'

II. Body Paragraphs

  • Topic Sentence: Introduce the first cause you'll discuss. Example: 'One major cause of stress is heavy workload.'
  • Supporting Details: Provide evidence and examples to support the cause. Example: 'For instance, individuals juggling multiple job responsibilities and tight deadlines often experience heightened stress levels.'
  • Transition: Link to the next cause or move on to the effects.
  • Topic Sentence: Introduce the first effect. Example: 'The effects of chronic stress on physical health can be devastating.'
  • Supporting Details: Present data or examples illustrating the impact. Example: 'Studies have shown that prolonged stress can lead to cardiovascular problems, including hypertension and heart disease.'
  • Transition: Connect to the next effect or cause.

C. Causes (Continued)

  • Topic Sentence: Introduce the next cause in a new cause and effect paragraph. Example: 'Another significant cause of stress is financial strain.'
  • Supporting Details: Explain how this cause manifests and its implications. Example: 'Financial instability often results in anxiety, as individuals worry about bills, debts, and their financial future.'
  • Transition: Prepare to discuss the corresponding effects.

D. Effects (Continued)

  • Topic Sentence: Discuss the effects related to financial strain. Example: 'The psychological effects of financial stress can be profound.'
  • Supporting Details: Offer real-life examples or psychological insights. Example: 'Depression and anxiety are common consequences of constant financial worries, affecting both mental well-being and daily life.'

III. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Summarize the main cause and effects. Example: 'In summary, the heavy workload and financial strain can lead to stress, impacting both physical and mental health.'
  • Closing Thoughts: Reflect on the broader significance of your analysis. Example: 'Understanding these causal relationships emphasizes the importance of stress management and financial planning in maintaining a balanced and healthy life.'

Cause and Effect Essay Examples

To help you grasp cause and effect essay writing with clarity, we have prepared two distinct essay examples that will guide you through the intricacies of both block and chain structures. Additionally, should you ever find yourself requiring assistance with academic writing or descriptive essays examples , simply send us your ' write my research paper ' request. Our expert writers are here to provide the support you need!

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Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Choosing a good topic starts with recognizing cause and effect key words. Here are 10 interesting topics that let you dig into fascinating connections and their important consequences:

  • The Relationship Between Lack of Exercise and Mental Health in Older Adults
  • Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Workplace Productivity
  • The Impact of Cyberbullying on Adolescents' Emotional Well-being
  • Influence of Social Media Advertising on Consumer Purchasing Decisions
  • Consequences of Oil Spills on Coastal Ecosystems
  • How Noise Pollution Affects Concentration and Academic Performance in Schools
  • The Connection Between Fast-Food Marketing and Childhood Obesity
  • Effects of Urbanization on Water Quality in Local Rivers
  • The Relationship Between Indoor Plants and Air Quality in Homes
  • Impact of Plastic Pollution on Wildlife in Urban Environments
  • The Effect of Meditation on Stress Reduction in College Students
  • How Increased Screen Time Affects Teenagers' Attention Span
  • The Impact of Single-Use Plastics on Marine Microorganisms
  • The Relationship Between Smartphone Use and Sleep Quality in Adults
  • Effects of High-Fructose Corn Syrup on Metabolic Health
  • The Consequences of Deforestation on Local Biodiversity
  • Influence of Social Media Comparison on Body Dissatisfaction in Adolescents
  • The Connection Between Air Pollution and Respiratory Health in Urban Areas
  • Effects of Excessive Gaming on Academic Performance in High School Students
  • The Impact of Fast Food Consumption on Childhood Obesity Rates

Final Words

Knowing what a cause and effect essay is and how to write it helps you uncover connections in different topics. With this guide, you can share your ideas in a clear and impactful way.

Meanwhile, if you're in need of a reaction paper example , rest assured we have you covered as well. So, seize this opportunity, put your thoughts on paper logically, and witness your essays leaving a lasting and influential mark.

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10.8 Cause and Effect

Learning objectives.

  • Determine the purpose and structure of cause and effect in writing.
  • Understand how to write a cause-and-effect essay.

The Purpose of Cause and Effect in Writing

It is often considered human nature to ask, “why?” and “how?” We want to know how our child got sick so we can better prevent it from happening in the future, or why our colleague a pay raise because we want one as well. We want to know how much money we will save over the long term if we buy a hybrid car. These examples identify only a few of the relationships we think about in our lives, but each shows the importance of understanding cause and effect.

A cause is something that produces an event or condition; an effect is what results from an event or condition. The purpose of the cause-and-effect essay is to determine how various phenomena relate in terms of origins and results. Sometimes the connection between cause and effect is clear, but often determining the exact relationship between the two is very difficult. For example, the following effects of a cold may be easily identifiable: a sore throat, runny nose, and a cough. But determining the cause of the sickness can be far more difficult. A number of causes are possible, and to complicate matters, these possible causes could have combined to cause the sickness. That is, more than one cause may be responsible for any given effect. Therefore, cause-and-effect discussions are often complicated and frequently lead to debates and arguments.

Use the complex nature of cause and effect to your advantage. Often it is not necessary, or even possible, to find the exact cause of an event or to name the exact effect. So, when formulating a thesis, you can claim one of a number of causes or effects to be the primary, or main, cause or effect. As soon as you claim that one cause or one effect is more crucial than the others, you have developed a thesis.

Consider the causes and effects in the following thesis statements. List a cause and effect for each one on your own sheet of paper.

  • The growing childhood obesity epidemic is a result of technology.
  • Much of the wildlife is dying because of the oil spill.
  • The town continued programs that it could no longer afford, so it went bankrupt.
  • More young people became politically active as use of the Internet spread throughout society.
  • While many experts believed the rise in violence was due to the poor economy, it was really due to the summer-long heat wave.

Write three cause-and-effect thesis statements of your own for each of the following five broad topics.

  • Health and nutrition

The Structure of a Cause-and-Effect Essay

The cause-and-effect essay opens with a general introduction to the topic, which then leads to a thesis that states the main cause, main effect, or various causes and effects of a condition or event.

The cause-and-effect essay can be organized in one of the following two primary ways:

  • Start with the cause and then talk about the effects.
  • Start with the effect and then talk about the causes.

For example, if your essay were on childhood obesity, you could start by talking about the effect of childhood obesity and then discuss the cause or you could start the same essay by talking about the cause of childhood obesity and then move to the effect.

Regardless of which structure you choose, be sure to explain each element of the essay fully and completely. Explaining complex relationships requires the full use of evidence, such as scientific studies, expert testimony, statistics, and anecdotes.

Because cause-and-effect essays determine how phenomena are linked, they make frequent use of certain words and phrases that denote such linkage. See Table 10.4 “Phrases of Causation” for examples of such terms.

Table 10.4 Phrases of Causation

The conclusion should wrap up the discussion and reinforce the thesis, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of the relationship that was analyzed.

Be careful of resorting to empty speculation. In writing, speculation amounts to unsubstantiated guessing. Writers are particularly prone to such trappings in cause-and-effect arguments due to the complex nature of finding links between phenomena. Be sure to have clear evidence to support the claims that you make.

Look at some of the cause-and-effect relationships from Note 10.83 “Exercise 2” . Outline the links you listed. Outline one using a cause-then-effect structure. Outline the other using the effect-then-cause structure.

Writing a Cause-and-Effect Essay

Choose an event or condition that you think has an interesting cause-and-effect relationship. Introduce your topic in an engaging way. End your introduction with a thesis that states the main cause, the main effect, or both.

Organize your essay by starting with either the cause-then-effect structure or the effect-then-cause structure. Within each section, you should clearly explain and support the causes and effects using a full range of evidence. If you are writing about multiple causes or multiple effects, you may choose to sequence either in terms of order of importance. In other words, order the causes from least to most important (or vice versa), or order the effects from least important to most important (or vice versa).

Use the phrases of causation when trying to forge connections between various events or conditions. This will help organize your ideas and orient the reader. End your essay with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis. See Chapter 15 “Readings: Examples of Essays” to read a sample cause-and-effect essay.

Choose one of the ideas you outlined in Note 10.85 “Exercise 3” and write a full cause-and-effect essay. Be sure to include an engaging introduction, a clear thesis, strong evidence and examples, and a thoughtful conclusion.

Key Takeaways

  • The purpose of the cause-and-effect essay is to determine how various phenomena are related.
  • The thesis states what the writer sees as the main cause, main effect, or various causes and effects of a condition or event.

The cause-and-effect essay can be organized in one of these two primary ways:

  • Start with the cause and then talk about the effect.
  • Start with the effect and then talk about the cause.
  • Strong evidence is particularly important in the cause-and-effect essay due to the complexity of determining connections between phenomena.
  • Phrases of causation are helpful in signaling links between various elements in the essay.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: Writing Guide

Are you struggling with how to write a cause and effect essay? Worry no more! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating a compelling and well-structured essay that demonstrates critical thinking and persuasive argumentation. Let’s dive into the world of cause and effect essays and transform your writing skills!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Cause and effect essays are a type of expository writing which explore the relationship between a particular condition and its resulting effects.
  • Crafting an effective cause and effect essay outline requires understanding logical organization, critical thinking skills, structure selection based on topic focus, evidence from reliable sources, strong thesis statements & clear transitions.
  • Common mistakes to avoid include using weak evidence or inadequate organization that can lead to confusion for the reader.

Cause and Effect Essays and Their Peculiarities

Cause and effect essays are a unique form of academic writing that focuses on the reasons and consequences of a particular issue or event. These essays require a clear thesis statement, logical organization, and critical thinking skills to effectively present cause and effect arguments.

As opposed to other forms of essays, cause and effect essays aim to explain complex relationships in an orderly, rational format, utilizing an impartial, analytical tone.

Defining Cause and Effect Essays

A cause and effect essay, also known as an effect essay, is a type of expository writing that explores the relationships between particular conditions and their resultant effects. The effect essay definition helps readers understand the correlation between occurrences or situations and their results, as these essays delve into how one event (the cause) gives rise to another event (the effect).

Some common examples of cause and effect essays include topics such as the effects of climate change, the causes of poverty, and the effects of technology on society. These topics often lead to engaging cause and effect discussions, allowing readers to better understand the connections between various factors.

Objectives of Cause and Effect Essays

The main objectives of cause and effect essays are to:

  • Examine the causes and consequences of a particular issue
  • Instruct the reader regarding the relationship between two or more occurrences or circumstances
  • Identify and discuss events that lead to certain outcomes

These essays not only elucidate the cause and effect relationships between events or circumstances, but also help cultivate critical thinking and persuasive writing aptitudes.

Examples of cause and effect essays include “The Causes of Global Warming” and “The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers”. By understanding the objectives and structure of cause and effect essays, you can effectively analyze complex relationships and present your arguments in a clear, logical manner.

Crafting a Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Creating an outline for your cause and effect essay is an essential step in the writing process. An effective outline will help you organize your ideas, choose the appropriate structure, and ensure that your essay follows a logical flow.

This section will guide you through the process of crafting a cause and effect essay outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs for each point, and a conclusion summarizing the main points of your essay.

Choosing the Right Structure

Selecting the right structure for your essay is crucial. Depending on your topic and focus, you may choose to focus on causes, effects, or a combination of both. For instance, an effect essay structure that examines causes elucidates how one or typically more causes lead to a single effect, with each cause being scrutinized in a distinct paragraph.

On the other hand, an essay that focuses on multiple effects involves analyzing how one or more effects result from a particular cause, with each effect examined in a separate paragraph.

Another option for structuring your essay is to explain the “domino effect,” where each body paragraph is dedicated to an event caused by some other event and resulting in one more event. This structure necessitates that causes assemble a chain, uniting the initial and final event in a logical sequence, elucidating the cause and effect process.

Developing Your Outline

When developing your cause and effect essay outline, consider the essay’s structure, the major topics to be addressed, and the data to be employed to sustain the topics. Moreover, it is essential to ensure that your essay is arranged in a rational fashion, and that the topics are clearly interrelated.

A well-constructed outline will include:

  • An engaging introduction that elucidates the issue
  • Pertinent body paragraphs that examine ideas related to the topic
  • An unambiguous conclusion that synthesizes everything without introducing fresh ideas.

By following these guidelines, you can create a detailed outline that will ensure your essay is well-organized, persuasive, and easy to follow.

Writing the Cause and Effect Essay

Now that you have a solid outline, you can begin writing your cause and effect essay. This section provides a step-by-step guide on how to write a cause and effect essay, including:

  • Brainstorming ideas and topics
  • Formulating a thesis statement
  • Constructing body paragraphs
  • Revising and editing your essay

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to crafting a compelling and well-structured cause and effect essay.

Brainstorming Ideas and Topics

The first step in writing a cause and effect essay is brainstorming potential topics and ideas. Consider your personal interests, the relevance of the topic to your audience, and the presence of clear causal relationships to guide your brainstorming process. Some possible areas to explore include:

  • Natural phenomena
  • Cultural movements
  • The development of ideas
  • The interconnectedness of characters, settings, and events in a work of literature

Remember that the goal of a cause and effect essay is to educate readers on the links between conditions and their repercussions, so it’s important to select a topic that allows for a clear understanding of these relationships.

Formulating a Thesis Statement

Once you have chosen your topic and brainstormed ideas, you need to create a strong thesis statement that identifies the cause-and-effect relationship you will explore in your essay. A good thesis statement should express an opinion about the topic, and the claims you make should uphold the opinion expressed in the thesis statement. For example, a thesis statement for an essay on social media addiction might be: “Social media addiction has a negative impact on mental health, as it leads to increased anxiety, depression, and isolation.”

With a strong thesis statement in place, you can proceed to construct well-organized body paragraphs that explore specific aspects of the causal relationship. Explaining complex relationships requires a clear and concise approach to ensure the reader’s understanding.

Constructing Body Paragraphs

When writing your body paragraphs, ensure that each paragraph focuses on one specific aspect of the cause-and-effect relationship, using clear topic sentences, transitions, and evidence from reputable sources to support your claims. For example, in an essay about social media addiction, one paragraph might explore the negative effects of virtual interactions on face-to-face communication, while another paragraph might discuss the link between social media use and increased anxiety levels.

Appropriate transitions and topic sentences are essential to maintain coherence and readability in your essay, so be sure to incorporate them throughout your body paragraphs.

Revising and Editing the Essay

After completing your first draft, take some time to revise and edit your essay to ensure clarity, logic, and persuasive argumentation. Begin by identifying major areas of concern, such as a lack of clear thesis statement or insufficient evidence to support your claims. Utilize peer reviews and editing checklists to receive feedback from others and identify any flaws in your essay.

Revise your essay for content, structure, and organization, ensuring that your essay is properly organized and that the content is clear and concise. Edit for sentence-level issues and typos, checking for grammar, spelling, or punctuation mistakes.

As a final step, proofread your essay by reading it aloud to detect any problems with continuity or coherence.

Examples of Cause and Effect Essays

Analyzing and learning from examples of cause and effect essays can greatly improve your own writing. By examining these examples, you can gain a better understanding of different organization patterns, structures, and writing styles commonly used in cause and effect essays.

In this section, we will explore how analyzing essay examples can help you refine your writing skills and apply the lessons learned to your own cause and effect essay.

Analyzing Essay Examples

When examining cause and effect essay examples, pay close attention to the organization, structure, and writing style employed by the author. This will help you understand how different organization patterns, such as the cause then effect structure or effect then cause structure, can be used in your own essay. By analyzing these examples, you can also learn how to effectively use evidence from reputable sources to support your claims and strengthen your argument.

Applying the lessons learned from analyzing essay examples can help ensure that your own cause and effect essay is well-structured, logical, and persuasive.

Applying Lessons from Examples

Now that you have analyzed examples of cause and effect essays, it’s time to apply the lessons learned to your own writing. Use the insights gained from examining these examples to create a strong thesis statement, organize your essay effectively, and present persuasive cause and effect arguments.

By incorporating the lessons learned from analyzing examples, your cause and effect essay will be well-structured, logically organized, and supported by strong, relevant evidence from reputable sources. This will ensure that your essay is not only compelling and engaging, but also informative and educational for your readers.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced writers can make mistakes when crafting cause and effect essays. By being aware of common pitfalls and knowing how to avoid them, you can ensure that your essay is strong, logical, and well-supported.

In this section, we will discuss some common mistakes and provide guidance on how to avoid them in your cause and effect essay.

Logical Fallacies

One common mistake in cause and effect essays is the use of logical fallacies, which are errors in reasoning that render an argument invalid. Examples of logical fallacies include false cause, hasty generalization, and straw man arguments. To avoid logical fallacies in your essay, ensure that your arguments are based on sound reasoning and supported by strong evidence from reputable sources.

By being aware of logical fallacies and ensuring that your arguments are based on sound reasoning, you can create a persuasive and logical cause and effect essay that effectively demonstrates the relationships between events or conditions and their outcomes.

Weak Evidence

Another common mistake in cause and effect essays is the use of weak or anecdotal evidence to support claims. This can undermine the credibility of your argument and make it less persuasive to your readers. To avoid using weak evidence, ensure that your claims are supported by:

  • Strong, relevant evidence from reputable sources
  • Statistical data
  • Expert opinions
  • Case studies

By using strong evidence, you can strengthen your argument and make it more convincing to your readers.

By using strong, relevant evidence to support your claims, you can create a compelling and well-supported cause and effect essay that effectively demonstrates the relationships between events or conditions and their outcomes.

Inadequate Organization

Inadequate organization is another common mistake in cause and effect essays. A poorly organized essay can be difficult to follow and may lead to confusion for your reader. To avoid this issue, organize your essay effectively using clear transitions, topic sentences, and a logical flow of ideas, especially when discussing multiple causes in cause and effect essays.

By organizing your essay effectively, you can maintain coherence and readability, ensuring that your cause and effect essay is both engaging and informative for your readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start off a cause and effect essay.

To begin a cause and effect essay, start with an engaging introduction that introduces the topic and provides a clear thesis statement which states the main cause, main effect, or both.

Following this, organize the essay by presenting either the cause-then-effect structure or the effect-then-cause structure.

How do you write cause and effect examples?

Cause and Effect examples can be written in sentences by presenting either the cause first followed by the effect, or the effect first followed by the cause.

For example, “I ate tons of junk food, so now I feel sick” or “I feel sick because I ate tons of junk food.”

What is cause and effect essay?

A cause and effect essay is an expository essay that analyzes the relationships between specific conditions and their consequences, often within a larger issue.

It examines how one event (the cause) can lead to another event (the effect).

How do I choose the right structure for my cause and effect essay?

When deciding which structure to use for your cause and effect essay, consider the topic and focus of your writing. You could opt for focusing solely on causes or effects, or a mixture of both depending on the subject matter.

For example, if you are writing about the causes of global warming, you may want to focus on the effects of human activities on the environment. On the other hand, if you are writing about something, you are writing about something.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a cause and effect essay?

Avoid logical fallacies, weak evidence, and inadequate organization when writing a cause and effect essay to ensure your argument is convincing and clear.

In conclusion, writing a cause and effect essay can be a rewarding and educational experience. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can create a well-structured, logically organized, and persuasive essay that effectively demonstrates the relationships between events or conditions and their outcomes. Apply the lessons learned from analyzing examples, avoid common mistakes, and use strong evidence to support your claims, and you will be well on your way to crafting a compelling and engaging cause and effect essay.

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4.4: Cause and Effect Essays

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  • Page ID 107784

  • Kathryn Crowther et al.
  • Georgia Perimeter College via GALILEO Open Learning Materials

Writing a Cause-and-Effect Essay

Choose an event or condition that you think has an interesting cause-and-effect relationship. Introduce your topic in an engaging way. End your introduction with a thesis that states the main cause, the main effect, or both.

Organize your essay by starting with either the cause-then-effect structure or the effect-then-cause structure. Within each section, you should clearly explain and support the causes and effects using a full range of evidence. If you are writing about multiple causes or multiple effects, you may choose to sequence either in terms of order of importance . In other words, order the causes from least to most important (or vice versa), or order the effects from least important to most important (or vice versa).

Use the phrases of causation when trying to forge connections between various events or conditions. This will help organize your ideas and orient the reader. End your essay by drawing a conclusion based on the information presented. You may find it helpful to think of the conclusion as an answer to the question: “so what” or as a continuation of the statement “and so... “. In some cases, may be appropriate to issue a call to action in your essay’s conclusion.

Sample Cause-and-Effect Essay

Effects of Video Game Addiction

Video game addition is a serious problem in many parts of the world today and deserves more attention. It is no secret that children and adults in many countries throughout the world, including Japan, China, and the United States, play video games every day. Most players are able to limit their usage in ways that do not interfere with their daily lives, but many others have developed an addiction to playing video games and suffer detrimental effects.

An addiction can be described in several ways, but generally speaking, addictions involve unhealthy attractions to substances or activities that ultimately disrupt the ability of a person to keep up with regular daily responsibilities. Video game addiction typically involves playing games uncontrollably for many hours at a time—some people will play only four hours at a time while others cannot stop for over twenty-four hours. Regardless of the severity of the addiction, many of the same effects will be experienced by all.

One common effect of video game addiction is isolation and withdrawal from social experiences. Video game players often hide in their homes or in Internet cafés for days at a time—only reemerging for the most pressing tasks and necessities. The effect of this isolation can lead to a breakdown of communication skills and often a loss in socialization. While it is true that many games, especially massive multiplayer online games, involve a very real form of e-based communication and coordination with others, and these virtual interactions often result in real communities that can be healthy for the players, these communities and forms of communication rarely translate to the types of valuable social interaction that humans need to maintain typical social functioning. As a result, the social networking in these online games often gives the users the impression that they are interacting socially, while their true social lives and personal relations may suffer.

Another unfortunate product of the isolation that often accompanies video game addiction is the disruption of the user’s career. While many players manage to enjoy video games and still hold their jobs without problems, others experience challenges at their workplace. Some may only experience warnings or demerits as a result of poorer performance, or others may end up losing their jobs altogether. Playing video games for extended periods of time often involves sleep deprivation, and this tends to carry over to the workplace, reducing production and causing habitual tardiness.

Video game addiction may result in a decline in overall health and hygiene. Players who interact with video games for such significant amounts of time can go an entire day without eating and even longer without basic hygiene tasks, such as using the restroom or bathing. The effects of this behavior pose significant danger to their overall health.

The causes of video game addiction are complex and can vary greatly, but the effects have the potential to be severe. Playing video games can and should be a fun activity for all to enjoy. But just like everything else, the amount of time one spends playing video games needs to be balanced with personal and social responsibilities.

External Links

“ Women in Science ” ( https://tinyurl.com/y8pggr7g ) by K.C. Cole. The link to the essay is correct. It seems to be titled “Hers” but it is the correct essay.

“ Cultural Baggage ” ( https://tinyurl.com/yc7qeuyp ) by Barbara Ehrenreich.

“ From Ancient Greece to Iraq: The Power of Words in Wartime  "  ( https://tinyurl.com/y76bt3ah ) by Robin Tolmach Lakoff discusses the power of language to dehumanize.

Contributors and Attributions  

Adapted from  Successful College Composition (Crowther et al.) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

Adapted from  Let's Get Writing (Browning, DeVries, Boylan, Kurtz and Burton) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: A Quick Guide From Academic Wordsmiths

cause and effect

What Is a Cause and Effect Essay

First, let’s answer the question –  what is a cause and effect essay? According to the definition, it’s a type of academic writing that explores the relationships between events or phenomena, focusing on identifying the reasons (causes) behind a particular occurrence and examining the consequences (effects) that result from it. 

The goal is to establish a clear and logical connection between the root of the problem and its corresponding outcome, providing readers with insights into the underlying mechanisms and outcomes of a given situation. This type of essay encourages critical thinking and analysis, aiming to explain the interconnected nature of events and their repercussions on each other.

Learning how to write such a paper is important for students using an essay writer service as well. It cultivates critical thinking, refines communication skills, promotes research proficiency, and provides a foundational understanding of relationships applicable in diverse academic and professional contexts.

Three Major Types of Cause and Effect Essay Structure

The block configuration offers writers a clear separation between consequences, the chain method interweaves them in a sequential manner, and the causal system delves into the intricate relationships between events. The choice of cause and effect essay structure depends on the complexity of the dealings being explored and the writer's preferred method of presentation.

Block Structure

In a block arrangement, the writer discusses all the correlations in one block or passage and then moves on to discuss the results in another block or paragraph. This approach is straightforward and easy to follow and is useful when there is a need to elaborate extensively on a selected subject.

  • Introduction: Begin by presenting the subject and offering contextual information.
  • Body Paragraph 1: Outline the factors contributing to the topic along with supporting specifics.
  • Body Paragraph 2: Examine the outcomes of these factors, incorporating testomony or illustrative examples.
  • Conclusion: Recapitulate the key aspects and underscore the overarching significance of the theme.

Chain Structure

The chain structure, on the other hand, involves a more interwoven approach. Each rationale is followed immediately by the corresponding weight, forming a chain-like progression. This shape creates a smoother flow between the events or phenomena being discussed and emphasizes the direct connections between consequences. This organization is effective for essays where the relationships are intricate and closely linked.

  • Introduction: Begin by presenting the subject and underscore its significance.
  • Body Paragraphs: Each section centers on a distinct motive and its ensuing influences, creating a connected string of events.
  • Cause 1: Elaborate on the initial reason and its resultant outcomes.
  • Cause 2: Detail the second basis and its effects, potentially incorporating the impacts of Cause 1.
  • Cause 3: Explore the third occasion and its aftermaths, encompassing the outgrowth of Causes 1 and 2. Follow this design for any additional sections, if required.
  • Conclusion: Recapitulate the primary reasoning, emphasizing its interlinked nature.

Causal Structure

The causal structure helps writers focus on discussing the relationship in a more in-depth and interconnected manner. Instead of presenting explanations and implications separately, it emphasizes the links between events, providing a more nuanced understanding of how one event leads to another. This framework is suitable when the writer aims to explore the intricate connections and influences between different elements.

  • Introduction: Introduce a topic and offer contextual information.
  • Body Paragraphs: Each section concentrates on a specific reasoning, scrutinizing the connections between them.
  • Cause 1: Elaborate on the initial reasoning and its immediate aftermath(s).
  • Cause 2: Delve into the second point, instigated by the result(s) of Cause 1, and its ensuing impact(s).
  • Cause 3: Outline the third basis, influenced by the effect(s) of Cause 2, and its subsequent effect(s). Maintain this pattern for any additional reasons and implications.
  • Conclusion: Summarize the causal chain, underscore the overall significance, and highlight potential long-term consequences.

how to write an essay on effect

Organizing Your Essay Using These Effective Patterns

cause and effect patterns

When writing cause and effect essay, the importance of patterns cannot be overstated. A well-organized pattern enhances the effectiveness of conveying your perspective. Check out three primary organizational patterns that can be employed to craft an exemplary essay, each tailored to suit the specific focus of your writing. While the first two methods find frequent application in high school and college writing, the third procedure, though less conventional, can prove beneficial in certain scenarios. Pay for essay now if you’d like a professional writer to apply one of these patterns so you don’t have to waste any time contemplating which will suit your assignment best. 

When determining the pattern for your forthcoming essay, carefully consider your topic and pose the fundamental question: 

  • Do you wish to delve into outcomes? 
  • Or would you like to scrutinize the origins? 

Based on your answer, opt for one of the following essay organization options:

Effects-Focused Method 

This technique directs attention toward unraveling the denouements of a particular phenomenon. Here, the writer delves into the outcomes, exploring their intricacies and implications. This practice allows for a comprehensive understanding of the upshots, painting a vivid picture for the elocutionist.

Causes-Focused Method

It shifts the spotlight to the root factors behind a given situation. By concentrating on the origins, the writer elucidates the underlying reasons, shedding light on the catalysts that set events in motion. This technique is particularly effective when a deeper exploration of the rationale is essential for a thorough comprehension of the subject matter.

Causal Chain Method

A more interwoven approach, it traces the interconnected links between sources and consequences. It unfolds like a narrative, where each reason begets a ramification, which in turn becomes a ground for the subsequent upshot. This style provides a seamless flow, revealing the intricate web of linkage and dependencies among the various elements involved.

Ultimately, the choice between these methods hinges on the writer's intent and the nuances of the subject at hand. These are three distinctive approaches, allowing for a tailored and nuanced exploration of relationships in your essay.

Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Introduction

  • Hook: Engage the reader with a compelling statement or question.
  • Background: Provide context and introduce the topic of the essay.
  • Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main reasons and denouements to be explored.

Body Paragraphs

  • Effects-Focused
  • Effect 1: Present the first effect and delve into its evidence.
  • Supporting Detail: Provide evidence or examples for Effect 1.
  • Effect 2: Explore the second effect and its intricacies.
  • Supporting Detail: Offer additional grounding or examples.
  • Causes-Focused 
  • Cause 1: Examine the primary reasoning and elaborate on its significance.
  • Supporting Detail: Incorporate evidence or examples for Cause 1.
  • Cause 2: Investigate the second clause and its underlying factors.
  • Supporting Detail: Strengthen your argument with evidence or examples.
  • Causal Chain 
  • Cause 1 and Effect 1: Trace the initial proviso and its immediate effect.
  • Supporting Detail: Provide evidence or examples for Cause 1 and Effect 1.
  • Cause 2 and Effect 2: Continue the chain with the second proviso and its effect.
  • Supporting Detail: Offer additional evidence or examples.

Counterargument (Optional)

  • Acknowledge opposing viewpoints or alternate justifications/aftermaths.
  • Refute counterarguments or demonstrate their limitations.
  • Summarize: Recapitulate the main determinants and impacts explored.
  • Emphasize Significance: Highlight the broader implications of the affiliations.
  • Concluding Statement: End with a thought-provoking statement or call to action.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: Step-by-Step Guide

In this segment, we will elucidate the fundamental components of writing this type of essay, providing you with insights and guidance to articulate a coherent and substantiated argument.

cause effect structure

Step 1 – Select a Topic

Choose a question that not only interests you but also has real-world significance, ensuring that your exploration of connections contributes meaningfully to the reader's understanding.

Step 2 – Generate a Thesis Statement

Thoroughly investigate and gather information from diverse sources, incorporating real-life examples and case studies to add depth and authenticity to your document. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement that not only outlines reasons and consequences but also hints at the broader implications, providing readers with a clear roadmap for what lies ahead in your essay.

Step 3 – Create an Outline

Thoughtfully consider the organizational methodology that aligns with your topic, ensuring that the chosen framework enhances the coherence of your narrative and allows for a seamless exploration of the main theme. After that, draw up a cause and effect essay outline that not only guides the frame but also highlights the logical progression of your arguments, offering a visual representation of how origins lead to results or vice versa.

Step 4 – Write the Introduction

In your introduction, craft a compelling opening that goes beyond capturing attention; aim to establish an emotional or intellectual connection with the reader, making them eager to explore the associations you present.

Step 5 – Develop Body Paragraphs

Dedicate each section to motives or reactions, ensuring that the supporting evidence not only elaborates on your points but also provides a comprehensive understanding of the contextual factors involved. When addressing counterarguments, strive not only to refute alternative perspectives but also to acknowledge the complexity of the issue, showcasing your essay's depth and your consideration of diverse viewpoints.

Step 6 – Use Transitions

Incorporate transitions that not only guide the reader but also serve as signposts, indicating the links between your ideas and creating a smooth and cohesive narrative. 

Step 7 – Write the Conclusion

In your conclusion, reiterate the importance of understanding the links discussed and leave the reader with a compelling thought or question that encourages further reflection.

Step 8 – Revise and Edit

During the revision process, focus not only on grammar and style but also on the overall coherence of your essay, ensuring that each sentence contributes meaningfully to the topic exploration. In your final review, pay attention not only to the technical aspects but also to the emotional power of your essay, ensuring that it resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impression.

We would also like to recommend our guide on how to write an expository essay , as these two types of compositions are some of the most frequently assigned to students. 

Cause and Effect Essay Examples

Below, you will have the opportunity to explore an essay example that uses the causal structure, serving as a source of inspiration and practical illustration. 

how to write an essay on effect

How to Start a Cause and Effect Essay?

How to conclude a cause and effect essay, how to write a good cause and effect essay.

how to write an essay on effect

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Cause And Effect Essay Guide

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

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Writing a cause and effect essay seems complicated and overwhelming, especially if you're unsure about where to start or how to structure your essay.

You might feel stuck, staring at a blank page, or confused by all the rules and guidelines. It's frustrating not to have clear examples and easy explanations to guide you through the process.

But don't worry!

In this blog, we will break down the complexities of cause and effect essays into simple, understandable steps. We will provide clear examples and straightforward tips, making essay writing easy. 

Let's read on.

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  • 1. What is a Cause and Effect Essay 
  • 2. Cause And Effect Essay Structure 
  • 3. How To Write A Cause And Effect Essay 
  • 4. Cause and Effect Essay Format
  • 5. Cause And Effect Essay Examples 
  • 6. Cause And Effect Essay Topics 
  • 7. Tips for Writing Cause and Effect Essays

What is a Cause and Effect Essay 

According to cause and effect essay definition:

It is a type of academic writing that explores the reasons behind an event or situation (the cause) and the outcomes or consequences that result from it (the effect). 

In this essay, you have to dig deeper into the "why" and "what happens next" aspects of a particular topic.

Understanding Causes and Effects 

Consider the below questions to evaluate the effectiveness of a cause and effect essay:

  • What are the causes and effects?
  • What elements should be emphasized?
  • Are there single or multiple effects and causes?
  • How to list causes and effects in an essay?

The Purpose of a Cause and Effect Essay 

The primary goal of writing a cause and effect essay is to provide insights into how different elements relate to one another. It helps readers comprehend the underlying reasons for certain events or phenomena. It enables you to:

  • Uncover Connections: Explore and explain the links between causes and their effects.
  • Analyze Events: Break down complex events into manageable parts.
  • Illustrate Patterns: Highlight recurring patterns and trends in various situations.

Cause And Effect Essay Structure 

A well-structured cause and effect essay outline is crucial for effectively conveying your ideas and insights. 

Here's how to craft an organized and compelling cause and effect essay:

How To Write A Cause And Effect Essay 

Writing a cause and effect essay can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to explore the relationships between events and their consequences. 

Steps To Write A Cause and Effect Essay - MyPerfectWords.com

To help you craft an effective cause and effect essay, here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose the Essay Topic 

Begin by choosing a topic that has significance and relevance. Look for subjects with clear cause-and-effect relationships to ensure your essay has a solid foundation. 

Consider both personal interests and the potential appeal to your target audience.

Step 2: Conduct Thorough Research 

Research is a fundamental step. Gather reliable information, data, and examples related to your chosen topic. 

Understanding the causes and effects comprehensively is vital for crafting a well-informed and persuasive essay.

Step 3: Create a Strong Thesis 

Your thesis statement is the core of your essay. It should clearly state whether you are focusing on causes, effects, or both. 

A well-crafted thesis provides direction for your essay and helps readers understand your essay's purpose.

Step 4: Structure Your Essay with an Outline 

An outline serves as a roadmap for your essay. It should detail the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. 

Each paragraph should have a specific focus on a single cause or effect, ensuring a logical and organized flow.

Step 5: Craft Engaging Introduction 

The cause and effect essay introduction is your first impression. Use a compelling hook to capture the reader's attention. 

Provide necessary background information to help your audience understand the context. 

Clearly state your thesis to set the stage for what's to come in your essay.

Step 6: Develop Detailed Body Paragraphs 

The body of your essay is where you explore causes and effects in depth. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces a specific cause or effect. 

Provide detailed explanations, supporting evidence, and illustrative examples to back your points. 

Use smooth transitions to maintain a coherent flow between paragraphs.

Step 7: Address Counter Arguments in the Antithesis Paragraph 

To present a well-rounded perspective, include an antithesis paragraph. This section allows you to acknowledge opposing viewpoints related to your topic. 

By addressing counter arguments, your essay becomes more comprehensive and persuasive.

Step 8: Write an Effective Conclusion 

The conclusion should wrap up your essay effectively. Restate your thesis statement for cause and effect essay to remind readers of your main argument. 

Summarize the key insights discussed throughout your essay. 

Conclude with a thought-provoking sentence that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Cause and Effect Essay Format

In addition to structuring your cause and effect essay effectively, adhering to formatting guidelines is essential.

Here are the key formatting guidelines to follow:

  • Font Type: Opt for widely accepted fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial. These fonts are easy to read and maintain consistency in your document.
  • Font Size: Keep the text within your essay at a 12-point font size. This standard size ensures that your content is legible and easily comprehensible.
  • Line Spacing : You have two choices for line spacing: either 1.5 or double line spacing. Double spacing may be more suitable for lengthy essays, while 1.5 spacing strikes a balance between readability and conservation of space.
  • Alignment: Align your text to justify, which means both the left and right margins are straight. This creates a clean and organized appearance for your essay, enhancing its overall professionalism.
  • Margins: Maintain one-inch margins on all sides of the document to give your essay a neat and well-structured look.

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Cause And Effect Essay Examples 

To gain a better understanding of how cause and effect essays are structured and written, it's often helpful to explore examples of cause and effect essays. 

Here are a few cause and effect essay pdfs that you can use as a starting point to guide your writing:

Cause And Effect Essay Sample

Cause And Effect Essay On Global Warming

Cause And Effect Essay On Climate Change

Covid 19 Cause And Effect Essay

Social Media Cause And Effect Essay

Poverty Cause And Effect Essay

Air Pollution Cause And Effect Essay

Cause And Effect Essay Examples College

Looking for more examples? Check out this cause and effect essay examples blog!

Cause And Effect Essay Topics 

Selecting the right topic is the foundation of a compelling cause and effect essay.. Here's a collection of thought-provoking topics that can serve as a great starting point for your essay:

  • The Causes and Effects of Bullying on Mental Health
  • The Impact of Divorce on Children
  • The Causes and Effects of Global Warming on Human Health
  • The Long term Effects of Peer Pressure on Decision-Making
  • The Causes of Stress in the Modern World
  • The Impact of Online Shopping on Traditional Retail
  • The Causes and Effects of Immigration
  • The Causes and Effects of Teenage Rebellion
  • The Impact of Cell Phones on Personal Relationships
  • The Causes and Effects of Political Polarization

Need more topics? Read our cause and effect essay topics blog!

Tips for Writing Cause and Effect Essays

Crafting a compelling cause and effect essay requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some valuable tips to help you excel in your essay writing process:

  • Hook Your Readers: Begin with a compelling hook in your introduction to engage your audience from the start.
  • Provide Detailed Explanations: In your body paragraphs, offer detailed explanations, supporting evidence, and examples for causes and effects.
  • Use Transitional Phrases: Employ transitional words and phrases to ensure a smooth and logical flow between ideas.
  • Consider Opposing Views: Include an antithesis paragraph to acknowledge contrasting viewpoints on your chosen topic.
  • Tailor to Your Audience: Think about your target readers and adapt your language and examples to their understanding and interest levels.
  • Avoid Plagiarism: Properly cite and reference all sources to maintain academic integrity and prevent plagiarism.
  • Maintain Objectivity: Keep an objective tone throughout your essay, focusing on presenting well-supported causes and effects rather than personal opinions.
  • Revise for Clarity: Review your essay to ensure that your cause-and-effect relationships are effectively and clearly conveyed.

All in all, this complete guide, examples, and tips will surely help you learn how to write a cause and effect essay step by step. Moreover, it will also refine your skills to get a better grade.

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How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

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A cause and effect essay explores why events happen (cause) and what occurs as an outcome (effect). It's a type of essay that explains connections between different things, events or phenomena. Cause and effect essays should clearly state causal relationships and help readers understand how things are interconnected.

Writing a cause and effect essay is quite a difficult task since not everything can be explained by lookingat the issue from the fist glance. You often should conduct additional research to make sure that your conclusion is right. By using our expert tricks and tips, you can ease your task and prepare an interesting project. This blog post will shed more light on such aspects:  

  • Purpose of a cause and effect essay
  • Essay outlines
  • Methods of organizing information
  • Step-by-step writing process.

Also, get ready to find some examples that will surely come in handy. So let’s get started!

What Is a Cause and Effect Essay: Definition and Purpose

A cause and effect essay is a type of academic writing that defines a causal relationship between two objects, events or phenomena. Its main purpose is to explain the impact of one thing on another one. Writing a paper on causal topics requires a clear definition of the cause-and-effect link. This means that students should identify such situation and share their opinion on the consequences. To prepare for the writing process, you should conduct preliminary research. Prewriting includes 3 preparatory stages:  

  • Choosing an appropriate causal situation
  • Defining roots and consequences of some phenomena
  • Offering solutions for negative impact (if there is any).

This information will be enough to cover any issue. But it will take time to prepare necessary evidence. You should use all available sources and write a plan for your paper. Make sure that the accuracy of the received information is beyond doubt. To make your work simpler, you should determine the topic you are particularly interested in. Preparing a project that you aren’t passionate about is a huge mistake that any professional can easily see. Keep reading to find out what makes a cause and effect essay successful and how to write it with ease.   In case you are looking for other essays such as problem and solution essays , browse one more of our blogs.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

Writing a cause and effect essay requires studying all important details thoroughly since there is no other way to get a comprehensive view of the situation. Students should make the list of reasons for a particular event, and then share observations in a logical order. Here’re several useful suggestions that will help you get started:  

  • Have a brainstorming session. Consider social movements, historical events, or recent trends to come up with an excellent cause and effect essay topic.
  • Do preliminary research. Research allows you to see what material is available on your topic and helps get the whole picture.
  • Build an effective thesis statement. Identify a causal relationship and write your essay on the basis of your thesis.
  • Jot down your main points. This basically means preparing an outline which will be discussed further in this blog post.
  • Write your rough draft. Expand the critical points listed in your outline to write the draft of your essay.

Keep in mind that it’s you whose work’s result depends on, so make sure that you have prepared convincing arguments.

Create Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Writing an informative piece begins with searching for an unusual topic. But it doesn’t mean that you won’t have to do anything else. Your task is to attract the readers’ attention, and this is impossible to achieve without preparing a structured cause and effect essay outline. Start by developing an informative plan, including these sections:

  • Introduction At the beginning, provide some memorable fact or news to attract attention. Provide some background and define your thesis statement.
  • Main body The main task is to convince readers that a chosen causal relationship matters. Specify the reason and how it affects some object or event. Use convincing arguments and don’t forget about the reliability of your information.
  • Conclusion Wrap up the main causes and effects and explain the significance of your topic. You may leave an open question for further consideration.

Forget about literally copying ideas from other sources. Your paper will be successful if you support each assumption with arguments. The focus on credibility is an important requirement that will enable you to make the right impression.

Cause and Effect Essay Structure

A cause and effect essay structure doesn’t differ from the rules of organizing your ideas in other text forms. Students are still required to come up with an introduction, the main points for body paragraphs, and summarize all presented information. Each block should resonate with your thesis. Generally, a cause and effect essay follows a 5 paragraph essay outline . However, the number of body paragraphs depends on the number of main points. Sometimes, one thing may have multiple effects. In this case, you should be prepared to create more paragraphs. Your finished text must be clear from speculation and guesses. Compiling a cause-and-effect chain is mandatory for the academic paper as well.  

Cause and Effect Essay Introduction

Typically, a cause and effect essay introduction includes such elements:

  • Background information
  • Thesis statement.

While working on your introduction, keep in mind that you will need to come up with the hook in an essay that will attract your audience’s attention. Then, you should provide some context to get readers familiar with your subject. Finally, you will develop your thesis statement listing causes and effects that will be discussed. If you still don’t have any ideas how to start a cause and effect essay, we recommend reading these tips:  

  • Avoid using parenthetical words. The phrases that will be used in the introduction can be deadly boring, so exclude such expressions as “as everyone knows” or “nowadays”.
  • Prepare several interesting facts or news. The best introduction you can come up with includes fascinating details. Thus, you will be able to get any attention you want.
  • Remember your main idea. Don’t deviate from the chosen topic. Be concise and stay on point.

A successful introduction should follow these common recommendations. So make sure you don’t skip our suggestions. Can't work those entire cause-and-effect writing out yet? Don't worry, professional college essay writers are always there for you.

Cause and Effect Essay Body: Block Method

The most difficult thing about writing a cause and effect essay is that readers may not follow all arguments and proofs. To save your work from possible confusion, you can structure your essay using body paragraphs. There are 2 methods to arrange your ideas in your main body:

  • Block method
  • Chain method.

The idea behind the block method is to provide arguments that are related to causes of events, and, then, use some evidence to show the effects. With this method, you can divide causal information into several blocks. This can simplify perception of your paper. You will get something like this:

It’s somewhat difficult for beginners to write a cause and effect essay body using this method. There may be too much space between the reasons and effects. However, using this method helps you eliminate any possible confusion in readers. Make a short outline of your presentation and use it to think over some basic structure. This trick will help you focus on the main facts and unbiasedly assess any situation.  

Cause and Effect Essay Body: Chain Method

Chain method is another way to organize information in a cause and effect essay body. Unlike the block method, building a chain is much easier for beginners. Since great attention is paid to cause-and-effect links, you should use an appropriate practical chain method. By choosing this option, you can sort out all arguments without missing any important details. Here’s how it will look like:  

By following this step-by-step cause and effect description in your project, you’ll be able to select a course and follow it throughout your whole work. As a result, you will draw up the main body that is structured according to academic requirements. You will be able to focus on a certain thought thanks to a clear understanding of your motives. This approach has been developed for students to choose the main idea first and only then proceed to writing their essay. Still, reasons and consequences do not take a back seat since an essay’s structure is united by some common idea.  

Cause and Effect Essay Conclusion

Cause and effect essay conclusion is probably the easiest section. Here, students don't have to introduce any new ideas. You will deal with an entirely different task – summarizing your critical points. Make sure you include these details:

  • Summary of main ideas
  • Reworded thesis statement
  • Food for thought.

Since your goal is to study cause-and-effect links, a conclusion is a great section to make some analysis. Students should organize their writing so that readers won’t have any questions after reading it. This being said, your final paragraph should confirm your thesis statement expressed in an introduction. In case you still have some questions, find an appropriate conclusion essay example .

Tips for Writing a Cause and Effect Essay

To make writing a cause and effect essay bring the result you need, use these simple tips:

  • Look through different cause and effect essay topics . Choosing an unusual one is your lucky ticket, so you should use sensational details.
  • Listed arguments should confirm your thesis and fit logically into the structure.
  • Use striking examples to demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships.
  • Study the existing opinions and make your choice. If you have a different point of view, find some evidence.
  • Before submitting your paper, proofread it for grammar and stylistic mistakes.
  • Make your essay title succinct and memorable. However, avoid long titles.

If you aren’t sure about the chosen topic, consult your professor. An expert opinion will help you choose a different direction and achieve the result you need. An irrelevant work is much worse than the one written with errors.

>> Read more: How to Write an Essay

Cause and Effect Essay Examples

Sometimes, all you need is good cause and effect essay examples. Luckily, we have lots of samples available on our website. Feel free to explore our collection of examples in the Sample section or check our ready-made essay below. Use this beautiful opportunity to save your time looking for essays. Alongside cause & effect, StudyCrumb proposes pretty great help with essay of any complexity.

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Cause and Effect Essays: Final Thoughts

It takes some effort and practice to master your cause/effect essay writing skills. Choosing a topic, preparing an outline, and searching for reliable arguments takes much time. You can achieve your goal by composing an essay using our guide.

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Our experts are ready to offer exceptional writing services and help with any academic paper. Professional approach and timely delivery are far from being the only advantages. Your work will be done by genuine experts who know how to convey any idea and develop a solid justification of cause and effect.  

FAQ About Writing a Cause and Effect Essay

1. which are the three types of cause and effect essays.

There are several types of cause and effect essays. To choose a preferable option, you should decide on the kind of work you are going to prepare. Each student can choose any of these 3 types:

  • One cause and many effects
  • One effect and many causes
  • Cause-and-effect chain.

These options are popular, so you should look for a narrative structure that suits your chosen type.

2. Which topic is narrow enough to address in a cause-and-effect essay?

You are assigned an essay, but you don’t understand which topic is narrow enough to address in a cause-and-effect essay? To get an answer, you won’t need to conduct any research since such a direction as Renewable Energy Resources is quite common. The main difficulty is that it will be impossible to cover this topic in a short essay. As your statement, you can use a variety of opinions on the existence of renewable resources.

3. What is the format of a cause and effect Essay?

The format choice affects your paper’s style, so you should decide between two popular options: MLA and APA. The difference is that the chosen cause and effect essay format assumes compliance with specific requirements. Select an applicable style depending on your field of study.

4. How many paragraphs should a cause and effect essay have?

The number of paragraphs in a cause and effect essay depends on the complexity of your topic. For this reason, you should decide on the number of causes and effects that can be covered. Usually, a complete essay consists of:

  • Introduction
  • 3 Body paragraphs
  • Conclusion.

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How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

Last Updated: September 20, 2022 Approved

This article was co-authored by Tristen Bonacci . Tristen Bonacci is a Licensed English Teacher with more than 20 years of experience. Tristen has taught in both the United States and overseas. She specializes in teaching in a secondary education environment and sharing wisdom with others, no matter the environment. Tristen holds a BA in English Literature from The University of Colorado and an MEd from The University of Phoenix. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 133,132 times.

A cause and effect essay requires that you examine a particular situation or event and determine a causal relationship. Start by choosing a particular topic. Then, conduct your preliminary research and take notes to incorporate into your essay. When you are finished researching, create an outline based upon your thesis statement and write an initial draft. Edit your draft closely and ask another person to do so as well.

Getting Ready to Write

Step 1 Take note of the assignment details.

  • If you write down the details yourself make sure to keep this piece of paper in a safe location as you will need to consult it throughout the writing process.

Step 2 Understand the goal of the assignment.

  • For example, you may be asked to write about the causes of the American Revolution, which means that you will discuss taxation protests and other contributing factors. Or, you may be asked to write about the effects of the American Revolution, which means that you will discuss nation-building and other long and short-term effects. A combined cause and effect essay would combine both of these angles.

Step 3 Narrow down (or broaden) your topic.

  • Double check that your idea is within the given subject parameters outlined by the teacher for the assignment.
  • Consider writing about moments that are close to your own experience, such as events that have impacted your life. For example, you could discuss a war period that you lived through. Or, you could take on a controversial topic, such as the proven effects of eating fast food on a regular basis. Taking a historical angle and looking into events like the American Revolution is another possible approach.
  • Be flexible in adjusting your topic breadth or depth as you work on your paper. At any point in the process, you may need to add or delete particular discussions to fit the requirements. For example, if you are writing about the actions of George Washington during the American Revolution, you may need to narrow your focus and only discuss one particular choice that he made.

Step 4 Read any assigned texts.

  • These texts are usually great places to research your topic further.

Step 5 Conduct background research.

  • Check that your sources fall within the guidelines given by your teacher for the assignment.
  • If you are covering a recent topic, such as the effects of fast food production, you may be able to use first-hand accounts, also known as primary sources, in your work.

Step 6 Approach your teacher with questions.

  • A good question might be, “Is there a minimum source number for this assignment?” Just make sure that the question that you ask is not already answered in the assignment sheet.

Constructing the Initial Essay

Step 1 Develop a thesis statement.

  • A thesis statement can be a single sentence or multiple sentences, depending on what you need to cover. It cannot be a quote, a basic statement of fact, or a question.
  • As you are trying to craft your thesis statement it is helpful to consider what your evidence indicates about your topic. What causes and/or effects are clearly illustrated by your sources? For example, if a number of your sources discuss stock market issues as a cause of the Great Depression, then you may argue that, “Stock market instabilities, in part, led to the Great Depression.”

Step 2 Create an outline.

  • While 3 ideas are typical for a 5-paragraph essay, you may find you have more ideas you want to include. Depending upon your topic and the length of your paper, scale up the number of ideas as needed.
  • Be pretty flexible with your initial outline as you will find areas that you will need to expand or cut when you actually start writing.
  • It may seem easier at first but you never have to limit yourself to the five-paragraph essay format, unless your teacher expressly requests that you do so. Otherwise, feel free to add additional paragraphs, up until the page limit, to create a stronger argument.

Step 3 Craft a solid introduction.

  • You can get a reader interested in your subject by opening with a vivid quote, exciting source, or quick anecdote. Just keep it brief. Your intro should only be a fairly short paragraph in comparison to the body ones.

Step 4 Write your body paragraphs.

  • Don’t forget to add at least a paragraph explaining to the reader why these connections are important to them on an individual or group level. You could also mention this in the cause-and-effect paragraph. This is an opportunity to make an educated statement about what the long and short term implications of this cause/effect cycle will be. Basically, why should we care?

Step 5 Emphasize the cause and effect timeline.

  • For example, if you argue that the Great Depression caused a rise in unemployment you will need to have statistics to support this perspective. After all, unemployment existed before and after the event in question, so the causal relationship is what must be clarified.

Step 6 Acknowledge or rule out other explanations.

  • For instance, if you are writing about the causes of the Great Depression you will want to discuss the stock market but also the income gap. Or, if you choose to focus solely on the Great Depression/stock market relationship then somewhere in your paper you’ll want to acknowledge the other possible causes while stating that you’ve chosen this particular focus.
  • Points you are proving may be major or minor. The goal is simply to explain how they affect the causal relationship.

Step 7 Craft a solid conclusion.

Polishing Your Final Draft

Step 1 Leave it alone.

  • This is another reason why it is best to not procrastinate when writing an essay of this type. You will need ample time to complete the process in a patient way in order to create your best possible work.

Step 2 Ask a friend to read it.

  • You might say, “Please focus on the word choice as that is a weakness of mine.”

Step 3 Read it again and revise.

  • Some people find it helpful to print out your paper at this point and make your revisions on a hard copy. This can also protect you in the event that you experience any computer troubles.
  • One strategy is to split your revisions into two parts: one revision for grammar and spelling and another to examine the organization and content of your paper.

Step 4 Pay attention to the transitions.

Expert Q&A

Tristen Bonacci

  • It is sometimes helpful to read your paper aloud while editing. This allows you to catch errors that might otherwise slip by you. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • You can also ask your teacher to look over your first draft as well if they are willing to do so. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Be very careful not to plagiarize or commit any type of academic honesty. Produce your own work and ask your teacher for help if you need it. [12] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Make sure to save your paper as you continue to work. Computer problems do happen and you don’t want to lose your work as a result. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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  • ↑ https://www.butte.edu/departments/cas/tipsheets/style_purpose_strategy/cause_effort.html
  • ↑ Tristen Bonacci. Licensed English Teacher. Expert Interview. 21 December 2021.
  • ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/685/02/
  • ↑ http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/causeeff.php
  • ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/editing-and-proofreading/
  • ↑ https://student.unsw.edu.au/editing-your-essay

About this article

Tristen Bonacci

To write a cause and effect essay, start by choosing a topic that interests you, such as the effects of eating fast food. Next, come up with a thesis statement, which is the argument you plan to make. Then, start with a paragraph that introduces the reader to the general topic and presents your thesis in the final sentence or two. After the introduction, write your body paragraphs, making sure to write 1 paragraph for each point of your argument. Finally, end with a conclusion that summarizes your thesis and main supporting points. For more tips from our Educational co-author, like how to conduct background research on your topic, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: The Complete Guide

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by  Antony W

November 4, 2021

how to write a cause and effect essay

Suppose the river where you spent many fun afternoons fishing or swimming is drying up. There must be a cause or many causes leading to that effect.

Or, suppose you want to investigate the effects of excessive logging upstream of your favorite river. The two events may be related, and it is the goal of a cause and effect essay to display this relationship.

Everything in this world has causes and effects, resulting in a cosmic interrelationship of infinite proportions.

As an example, writing a good essay results in good grades, good grades get you into a good college, a good college will likely get you a good life.

If you are looking for more practical help, order the cause and effect essay writing service here. Our team of highly skilled and experienced academic writers will handle it for you quickly and efficiently. 

 We guarantee you top quality, organic and well-researched essays, complete confidentiality, and the most affordable rates in town.

If you aim to learn what a cause and effect essay is, how to write one, and the criteria used to mark it, read on.

Be sure to stick around to the end for the detailed cause and effect essay outline example.

What Is A Cause And Effect Essay

While the name is self-explanatory, the definition is a bit more specific.

A cause and effect essay is an academic paper that analyzes the causes of an event and draws logical links between the two.

It can also be defined as a paper that investigates the causative factors of an event to draw clear, direct links between them.

From this definition, you can tell that there are two types of cause and effect essays.

One kind focuses on the event to find the causes, called a Focus-on-Effects essay. The other focuses on how various events cause a certain effect, so it is called a Focus-on-Causes essay.

This essay is not as simple as one might think.

For example, it is common in some parts of the world to have power outages during storms. However, do you think it is accurate to say the power went out because there was a storm?

Just because one precedes the other does not give it a direct correlation - instead, it might be better to say the power went out because a tree fell on the lines.

The goal of a cause and effect essay is to find out and clarify such nuances. 

What Makes A Good Cause and Effect Essay

There are no specific criteria that define what a good cause and effect essay is.

Most schools and instructors will use a custom rubric to grade the essays from their students.

However, from years of experience, top academicians at Help for Assessment cite the following qualities as necessary in a top-grade cause and effect essay.

  • It needs to be interesting:  As with most essays, a clinical listing of factors and effects will deny the essay of character. Instead, it should be highly engaging, have links to real-life evidence and experiences, and have a unique character infused from the writer's point of view.
  • Relevant: A cause and effect essay needs to have a direct impact on the real world. Don’t be drawn to analyze events in Harry Potter or some other fictional event because it will have no academic value.
  • Accurate : The link between causes and effects you choose to explore must be clear, logical, and accurate. Support your assumptions and inferences with plenty of evidence and data. No matter how straightforward it seems, make sure that your claims are verifiable and have solid proof.
  • Concise : A cause and effect essay is one of the shortest in academia, spanning only 5 paragraphs in total. Make sure that the topic chosen is highly specific, and that each of the ideas presented is thorough but brief.
  • Simple and clear : The essay needs to be written in simple, clear language that even a layman can understand clearly. Anyone reading the essay should be able to follow the same logical steps as you do and arrive at a similar conclusion. Use linking phrases such as because, hence, due to, consequently, as a result of, since  and therefore. 

Each of the paragraphs has a specific purpose in the essay. As such, our next step is to review the cause and effect essay structure.

Cause and Effect Essay Format Sample

how to write an essay on effect

This is a chain cause and effect essay outline , where each cause is followed by an effect.

You will notice that this essay is very similar in structure to another common type of essay: the problem-solution essay. 

Another outline called the block format is also possible.

With the block format, all the causes/effects are listed first, then all the corresponding effects/causes are listed and then links drawn between the two. Below is a sample block format.

how to write an essay on effect

Sometimes, you find that a cause does not lead directly to an effect. Instead, it leads to a situation, and that situation to another, in a linked chain that leads to the effect.

In this case, you can choose to use the causal chain or domino pattern for the essay format.

Each paragraph in your essay will represent one link, and the essay will usually have up to seven paragraphs and five in the body. 

With that, it’s time to explore the step-by-step process that leads to writing the best cause and effect essay.

How to Write A Cause and Effect Essay Step-by-Step

1. brainstorm.

The first step is to come up with an appropriate cause and effect essay topic .

There are unlimited ideas for you to start with, but thinking about the qualities you want from your essay will help you to narrow down. 

That is, it should be specific, interesting, relevant, accurate, and consistent with your current level of education.  

You can gather ideas from books and publications, movies and videos, and even music. Write down all the ideas that pop into your head.

2. Selection

Narrow down the ideas you have so that you ultimately end up with one. You can start by eliminating those that are too common and likely to be overused.

You want your topic idea to be as unique and fresh as possible. You can also look at which will have relevance in your dream career.

For example, if you want to be a doctor, you might pick one that is related to that as opposed to one on climate change.

Take your chosen topic and narrow it down to a specific statement.

For example, if your idea was “Deforestation,” you can narrow it down to “The effects of deforestation in the Amazon on global climate.”

4. Identify The Causes/Effects And Your Supporting Points

If your topic will be cause-focused, identify the effects and its main supporting points or vice versa for the alternative viewpoint.

Write these down, and then choose the three strongest points which will fit into your essay body.

5. Craft a Concise Thesis Statement And Title

These should be as focused as possible to be able to tell the reader exactly what your essay is about.

To write the thesis statement, condense all the causes and effects into one brief but clear sentence. You can do it in two sentences if they don’t fit in one.

Now you know the what and the how of cause and effect essays. Checkout 20+ cause and effect essay sample topics here .

Need Help to Write Your Cause and Effect Essay?

A cause and effect essay is straightforward and relatively easy to write. However, this makes it all the harder to achieve top marks.

Your essay has to stand out and be exceptional if it to impress your instructor. 

Remember that Help for Assessment is here to take the burden off your hands. For all essay and project writing services,  check out our services page and order your paper at the most affordable rates in town. We'll even throw in a 50% discount for you if it's your first time  here !  

We promise to write you 100% unique, well-researched and personalized essays and guarantee confidentiality, no matter where you are in the world. You can trust us to get you there, every time.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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!

Cause and Effect

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.

cause and effect essay

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

Cause and effect graphic organizer

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

Cause and effect chart

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

Cause and effect pictures

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) :

Cause and effect examples

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.

Five paragraph essay graphic organizer

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

College essay tips

Check out Handmadewriting paper writing Guide to learn more about academic writing!

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Writing - part 1

Writing Cause and Effect Essays

Intermediate

One of the most common tasks on important tests is writing cause and effect essays or paragraphs. Here are some tips to help you write a cause and effect essay.

  • Remember that causes come first, effects follow.
  • Learn multiple forms (also known as equivalencies) so that you can vary your writing style.
  • Use an effective hook to catch the reader's attention.
  • Always use examples to provide evidence.
  • Use linking language such as conjunctive adverbs, or listing words to organize your paragraphs.
  • Use a hamburger essay form (introduction, three body paragraphs, conclusion) for cause and effect essays.
  • Begin by brainstorming (example below). Next, write a quick outline using ideas created by brainstorming.
  • Use your outline as a map to writing your essay. It may take a few minutes to develop an outline, but having an outline results in a much clearer essay.

Step 1: Brainstorming

Brainstorm your essay. Brainstorming is used to create as many ideas as possible. Don't worry whether your ideas are good or bad, just come up with as many as possible. Here is some brainstorming for essays on four different topics:

Step 2: Write an Outline

It's important to create a map of your essay. There's no need to write out full sentences, just take ideas from your brainstorming and use them to fill out the outline. Next, come up with a hook and a topic sentence for your introductory paragraph. Here's an example:

Introduction:

Statistic about obesity

Topic sentence: 

Obesity has become the number one threat to good health in developed countries.

Body I - Causes

Cause 1: Price

Cause 2: Advertising

Cause 3: Time

Body II  - Effects

Effect 1: Poor health

Effect 2: Less time for family, more time for work

Effect 3: Stress

Body III - Possible Changes

Change 1: Education

Change 2: Don't eat at chains

Change 3: Choose fruit and vegetables

Step 3: Use Forms for Showing Cause and Effect

The final step is to write your essay or paragraph. Use the following language formulas for showing cause and effect in your essays and paragraphs. Make sure to use a variety of sentences including compound and complex sentences.

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Steps for Writing a Cause and Effect Essay

  • Choose an event or a phenomenon to analyze. Ask yourself, “What happened,” and then try to answer the question, “Why did it happen?”
  • Sketch out the main points of your essay in the introduction . Let readers understand what your paper is going to be about in general .
  • List the causes and give their description, so your reader can grasp the whole situation.
  • Follow up with the effects, showing the connection between reasons and consequences. Your reader must understand how you have arrived at one from another.
  • Explain why your analysis is important and what its practical meaning is.
  • Make a conclusion .

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Since almost any event has both its causes and consequences, there are a vast variety of possible topics for a cause and effect essay. Still, it would be reasonable to choose a topic you are familiar with. These may be:

  • Video games can boost IQ.
  • Optimism improves immunity.
  • Using social media improves communication skills.
  • The promotion of bicycle use helps reduce traffic jams.
  • Cellphone use can improve family relations.
  • Social media can help teens with their socialization.
  • Living together before getting married makes marriage better.
  • A happy marriage makes a person’s life longer.
  • Going to college helps people make better choices and have happier marriages.
  • Developed communication skills help families have close relationships.
  • Immigration and the growth of xenophobic prejudices.
  • Negative effects of smoking.
  • Factors that lead to depression.
  • A correlation between economic crisis and unemployment.
  • Economic consequences of the war in the Middle East.
  • Effects of global warming.

Key Points to Consider

  • Mind that the same event may be a cause and an effect simultaneously. For example, the collapse of the Soviet Union may be studied as a result of many domestic and foreign factors, but at the same time, it can be considered a cause of the restructuring of the Eurasian geopolitical space, the uprising of China and so on. Decide in which direction you are going to move.
  • Concentrate on those effects that relate to the causes directly, and are close in time to them. This will prevent you from having to go into unneeded analysis of far-reaching consequences.
  • You might find it useful to sort effects by categories, so that you do not confuse anything. For instance, if you describe the consequences of the Second World War, you can divide them into social, economic, and political sections.
  • State clearly what exactly you are going to examine: causes, effects, or both.

Do and Don’t

Common mistakes when writing a cause and effect essay.

– Forgetting to show connections between causes and effects.

– Covering a broad topic and digging into a large number of causes, consequences, and arguments.

– Losing links in a causal chain. If you have a sequence of causes that flow logically one from another, then missing one or several of them will make your paper harder to understand.

– Forgetting to use supporting details.

– Forgetting the purpose of your paper. For instance, starting to write a persuasive paper may end up with an informative one.

Now that you have acquainted yourself with the basic cause and effect essay writing tips and rules, you can check out our cause and effect essay samples  to link theory with practice.

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How to Write a Cause & Effect Essay: Examples, Outline, & Tips

You don’t need to be a nerd to understand the general idea behind cause and effect essays. Let’s see! If you skip a meal, you get hungry. And if you write an essay about it, your goal is achieved!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

Cause & Effect: why something happens & what happens as a result.

However, following multiple rules of academic writing can be a tough task. But don’t worry; this guide can help you finish your cause and effect writing assignment on time and with little to no stress. By the end of this article by Custom-Writing.org experts, you will know the structure and variations of this essay type. Long story short, it’s a full guide on how to write a cause and effect essay (with examples!).

❓ What Is a Cause and Effect Essay?

✍️ how to write a cause and effect essay.

  • 💡 Choose Your Topic
  • 🎓 Create a Thesis Statement
  • 📑 Outline Your Essay
  • 📝 Develop the Paragraphs
  • 👀 Essay Examples

🔗 References

A cause and effect essay’s main focus is to work through the relationship between two events . Specifically, it highlights how one event leads to the second one. The writing structure changes depending on the ratio of causes to effects that you choose. Read the examples below for more detail.

As mentioned, this article can be considered the ultimate guide to writing a perfect cause and effect essay. It consists of smooth and clear instructions with examples.

To write a cause & effect essay, you need to choose its topic, create a thesis, make an outline, and write the text.

  • First, it tells you how to choose a suitable topic. This is vital as it becomes the foundation for your essay.
  • Then, there is some information on how to choose the outline that is appropriate for your essay’s primary focus.
  • Finally, you will learn what language you should use to hit the best score! It concludes with a cause and effect essay sample, which you may use as an example.

💡 Choose Your Cause and Effect Essay Topic

In order to find a good topic for your cause and effect essay, you should choose what to focus on: the causes or the effects? Not only does the whole structure of your paper depend on it, but you also need to pick a suitable topic based on that decision. Let’s see how the topic would change depending on the focus.

Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • How does noise pollution affect your physical and mental health?
  • What were the main reasons of the Great Depression ?
  • What does a high sugar consumption do to our health?
  • The impact of social media on children’s mantal health.
  • Reasons and effect of gender segregation in the labor market.
  • What induces people to take drugs ?
  • The main reasons for parking shortage in big cities .
  • How can regular exercises add to our physical and mental wellbeing?
  • How did World War II affect social and political structure of the world?
  • The main factors that caused the global poverty .

🎓 Create a Cause and Effect Thesis Statement

The best cause and effect essays also have a well-prepared thesis statement . Generally, the thesis statement would point out your point of view and your essay’s main ideas. Here, however, you should also not forget to highlight whether the focus is on causes or effects. You can use a thesis statement generator for essay to speed up the creation process. For instance, this statement highlights the effects of daily walks, states that the author supports this idea, and presents one thing that causes three effects:

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

Walking for at least half an hour every day can bring numerous positive benefits for your health: it improves blood circulation, strengthens joints, and helps with weight loss.

📑 Outline Your Cause and Effect Essay

Like the topic, your cause and effect essay outline is affected by your writing focus. The structure depends on how many relations you choose to highlight. For instance, there may be only one leading cause or multiple. The same is with effects. Moreover, there is one additional type.

Many Causes, One Effect

In this kind of essay, you would focus on discussing as many related causes as you can think of. An additional advantage would be if you could select various causes from different areas. But remember to prove that they all lead to one effect.

In a many causes, one effect essay, you focus on several connected causes that lead to one effect.

This cause and effect essay structure reflects the general outline you are used to (remember that conclusion is usually a paraphrase of a thesis statement from the introduction).

Many Causes, One Effect Essay Outline Example

1. Introduction

1.1. Thesis statement: Bullying begins with personal desires or family issues and leads to increased numbers of suffering children.

2. Main body

2.1. Cause 1: Bullies want to be noticed.

2.2. Cause 2: They want to feel superior.

2.3. Cause 3: There are issues at home.

2.4. Effect: Many innocent kids become victims of bullying.

3. Conclusion

One Cause, Many Effects

The outline of this type of essay would look a lot like the previous one, except that the ratio of causes and effects is mirrored. You should be quite competent in the topic you’re working on to produce a quality essay.

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In a one cause, many effects essay, you focus on one cause that leads to many connected effects.

One Cause, Many Effects Essay Outline Example

1.1. Thesis Statement: Overusing social media can lead to adverse psychological and emotional effects.

2.1. Cause: Spending too much time on social media, watching other users’ lives.

2.2. Effect 1: Users become more self-conscious about their appearance or quality of life.

2.3. Effect 2: It takes up time that could have been used for more useful activities.

2.3. Effect 3: Real-life relationships and other commitments suffer.

Cause-Effect Chain

It may be more challenging than the other essays. The structure of this type of writing reflects a chain reaction. The effect of the initial cause leads to another cause and effect cycle. You will need to be careful and very attentive in order to maintain the logical order.

A cause-effect chain essay focuses on a chain of several cause & effect cycles.

1.1. Thesis Statement: Through the chain of causes and effects, it can be observed that the use of hair spray may lead to a global catastrophe.

2.1. Cause and effect chain #1: Chlorofluorocarbons were used to make hairsprays 50 years ago, but they are harmful to the ozone layer – some of them are still in the atmosphere ruining ozone molecules.

2.2. Cause and effect chain #2: Less ozone layer causes icebergs to melt faster.

2.3. Cause and effect chain #3. Melting ice causes the sea level to rise and flood the land.

📝 Develop Your Cause and Effect Paragraphs

Since we are talking about academic writing here, it’s essential to keep your language appropriate. The most commonly used word, in this case, is “because .” However, you shouldn’t overuse it.

There are quite a few ready-to-use phrases that are most suitable for this type of essay. Include these in your cause and effect paragraphs to make the transition between ideas smoother and your writing more coherent:

  • As a consequence, …
  • It leads to…
  • (The cause) results in / causes / influences (the effect)
  • The key factors are…
  • One of the results is…
  • The primary effect of (the cause) is…

Don’t forget to use sentence connectors, such as:

  • In addition
  • Furthermore
  • Consequently

After completing the first draft, you should proofread your writing and carefully check that there are no sentence fragments, like this:

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

Because I haven’t slept in two days before the exam.

Sometimes, rushing through the writing process may lead your thoughts astray, and you leave the ending of the sentence unfinished. However, it’s a severe mistake, so try to avoid it.

In addition, you should not mix the verb tenses. If you are describing a past event, stick to the past tense. Of course, it may depend on the situation. For instance, the present tense is used to talk about universal truth, while different tenses can be used for writing a report.

👀 Cause and Effect Essay Examples

We have gone step by step through the process of writing a good cause and effect essay. Now, finally, you can check out how it should look altogether. The following writing follows the template of the outline about bullying that we introduced earlier. It has all the necessary elements, such as the structure, vocabulary, and the thesis statement highlighted. It is a great example of a cause and effect essay, so go ahead and read it through!

Bullying in Schools (Cause & Effect Essay Sample)

Want more samples? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a bonus list of cause and effect essay examples.

  • Causes and Effects of Divorce
  • Causes and Effects of Drug Addiction
  • Sophocles’ Antigone: Cause & Effect Essay
  • Child Abuse and Health of Nation: Cause & Effect
  • Cause and Effect: Living with Pets Improves Their Owners’ Health
  • American Society Police Brutality Causes and Effects
  • Civil War in the US: Causes and Effects
  • Causes and Effects of Fast-Food Addiction
  • Diabetes: Causes and Effects of Disease
  • Tsunamis in Australia: Causes and Adverse Effects
  • Cause-and-effect | Definition of Cause-and-effect at Dictionary.com
  • Causes and Effects – Harvard Business Review
  • Cause and effect | Nature Methods
  • Cause and Effect – SAGE Research Methods
  • Cause and Effect in Epidemiology | SpringerLink
  • Patterns in the Landscape – Analyses of Cause and Effect
  • Cause and Effect Diagram – Clinical Excellence Commission
  • Explaining Causality – Academic Phrasebank
  • Cause and Effect Essay Examples (Your Dictionary)
  • Cause and Effect – Writing for Success
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180 Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

how to write an essay on effect

That’s why cause-and-effect essays are one of the most commonly assigned writing assignments in all of academia. They test a student’s ability to draw connections and make logical arguments as well as research abilities and writing skills. 

They can be very enjoyable to write if you know the fundamentals of essay writing, understand what this type of essay requires, and choose the right topic. In this article, you’ll get a brief overview of what a cause and effect essay is, tips on how to choose the right topic, and a list of over 150 topics to inspire you!

What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

A cause and effect essay is a writing assignment that asks you to explore the causes of certain events and link them to their outcomes. These types of essays can be focussed on the causes, the effects, or both. They can follow the typical 5 paragraph essay format, or they can have more body paragraphs than usual, depending on the complexity of the topic chosen. 

How to Choose a Cause and Effect Essay Topic

Since the entire paper will be about the causes and effects of your topic, choosing the right topic is vitally important for this type of essay. Sometimes teachers give a general theme to follow which makes it easier to choose a specific topic. Having the freedom to choose any topic you want can be daunting but as long as you keep the following points in mind, you’ll find an excellent topic to write about. 

  • If you’ve been assigned a theme, spend time brainstorming several ideas to get a unique and interesting topic.
  • Get ideas about what you want to write about from articles you’ve recently read. This will also give you a headstart on research.
  • Take a broad topic and narrow it down to specific issues and relationships.
  • The scope of your essay shouldn’t be too broad or too narrow. Think about your word count and choose a topic you can explore properly within that limit.
  • You should always have facts and research to back up any claims you’re making, so choose a topic that has credible information available.
  • Use personal conversations and experiences to narrow down the list of potential topics.
  • Make sure there are a clear cause and effect relationship to explore in your topic. 
  • Always try and choose a topic that you feel personally interested in. Passion will make the research more enjoyable, make your writing more interesting, and cut down on the amount of time you spend on the assignment.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics List for Students

Cause and effect essay topics for high school.

20 topics for cause and effect essay for high school students related to their experiences and chosen to match the level of complexity expected. 

Can student activism cause changes in the world?
What is the impact of growing up a child of divorce?
What are the main causes of anxiety in high school?
What are the effects of having very rich or famous parents?
How does having a messy room impact productivity?
What are the reasons that comic book movies rarely get Academy Awards?
Why is music better today, or why was it better in the past?
Why do students cheat?
What are the effects of playing group sports on social bonding?
What should people do to avoid getting sick?
Can online shopping cause shopping addiction?
Why are some video games more fun than others?
Why are oil spills so bad for marine ecosystems?
Why does weight have such a large impact on self-esteem?
What is the effect of family vacation on family relationships?
Why are people afraid of trying new things?
Why should humans protect endangered species?
How does theoretical physics affect the real world?
What are the long-term effects of vaping?
Is there a connection between bullying culture and school violence?

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Cause and Effect Essay Topics for College Students

Here’s a collection of 20 unique topics for college-level papers that will benefit from research and deep analytical skills.

Why do so many Americans still live in poverty?
What is the impact of underage drinking?
How does fasting impact your overall health?
What would be the difference if an asteroid impacted land or ocean?
Why do we buy so many things we don’t need?
What is the UN doing to combat modern-day slavery?
What is the impact of religious oppression in a country?
Why do sports and physical activity release endorphins?
Why is Japan more technologically advanced than many countries in the world?
How has the internet affected education in remote villages in developing nations?
How did Christianity shape colonialism?
Why is it dangerous not to finish a course of prescription medication?
What are the effects of picture and video apps on self-esteem?
Should standardized testing have such a large impact on a student’s future?
What is the impact of colonialism on modern-day Africa?
What is the impact of distance learning on mental health?
What are the benefits of studying in a group versus studying alone?
Is it possible to date and still be focused on academics?
Do violent movies and video games lead to real-life violence?
What is the impact of being raised in a multi-generational household?

Cause and Effect Essay Topics for Middle School

These 20 topics are perfect for teenagers to think about and should inspire them to write a fantastic essay. 

What is the effect of bullying on school culture and school spirit?
Why is it important to think about the environment?
What are the effects of spending time in nature?
What were the causes of World War II?
How has Covid-19 changed your daily routine?
What would happen if everybody did only what they wanted to?
What is the connection between music and mathematics?
How can social media and the internet reduce loneliness?
Why was the invention of the steam engine so important?
Describe a society where people learned to get along with each other.
Should famous people who say or do bad things lose their fans?
Why do countries close to the equator usually have spicy food?
What has been the effect of rap lyrics on poetry?
What are some of the benefits of colonizing Mars?
How do video games affect academic achievement?
What is the role of parental punishment on motivation?
What are the benefits of celebrating holidays from different religions?
What is the fallout from posting an unpopular story on Instagram?
How can you build a successful social media channel?
How does having a fun teacher affect student motivation?

Cause and Effect Essay Topics for Elementary Level

While these types of essays can become very complex, it is important for young children to start understanding the connection between things and exploring causes and effects at an early age. Here are 20 topics perfect for kids!

Why is it important to learn to share?
Why is it important to eat a good breakfast?
What have you learned from your favorite cartoon character?
How does the weather impact your mood?
Why should children get more time to play?
How do you feel after getting a good night’s sleep?
Why should Santa Claus bring you the toys you want?
What would you do if you saw an injured animal?
Why are birthdays important?
Why is riding a bike good for the environment?
How would having a smartphone improve your life?
How does being an older brother or sister make you different?
How does being a younger brother or sister make you different?
Why is it important to learn math?
Do having pets make you more responsible?
What are the effects of bullying on the bully?
What is the impact of your favorite Marvel superhero on the plot of the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
What are the causes and effects of being popular?
Why is littering bad for society?
Why is it important to eat vegetables?

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Cause and Effect Essay Topics Ideas

Fun cause and effect essay topics.

20 good cause and effect essay topics that are just plain fun to think about!

How are esports going to change the future?
What would it be like to give up all social media as a high school student?
Should people with more money be taxed at a higher rate?
Are periodic revolutions good for the progression of society?
How does smiling affect how long you live?
What are the benefits of owning a pet?
What started the domestication of animals by humans?
How has the use of cell phones affected in-person interaction?
What would be the impact on society if people could directly vote for every important issue?
What makes Elon Musk such a magnetic person?
What would the world be like if Facebook never existed?
Why are young people better at gaming than older people?
How is virtual reality going to change entertainment?
Why have science fiction movies become so popular over the last decade?
What responsibilities should social media influencers automatically be aware of?
What was the impact of Star Wars on the film industry?
How did YouTube change the way humans create and consume media?
Would Harry Potter have been less popular if the main character was a woman?
What effect does the language you speak have on the way you think?
What would the impact of raising the minimum wage be?

Easy Cause and Effect Essay Topics

You don’t have to write something too complicated to get a good grade! Here are 20 easy essay topic examples for your paper. 

What are the main causes of teenage smoking?
How do school uniforms improve cohesion and morale?
What is the impact of sweet fruit juices on health?
What role does the media have on public opinion?
What are the benefits of traveling abroad?
Do people feel better after crying?
Does using a smartphone right before sleeping negatively impact sleep quality?
Why is it more difficult for immigrants to find a job?
What are the effects of working out too much?
Does online dating make people have lower social skills?
How can improving time management reduce stress?
What is the impact of family stability on academic performance?
How does attending college impact lifelong earning potential?
Why is Google the most popular search engine?
How is carbon dioxide a greenhouse gas?
Why was the #Metoo movement so important?
What are the benefits of reading for pleasure as a child?
How has globalization impacted the role of women in societies?
What are the negative impacts of sound pollution?
How can a single species impact large ecosystems?

Personal Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Go over these 20 essay topics to write an essay that relies more on self reflection and personal growth. 

How has your favorite book impacted your life?
Is parenthood always a rewarding experience?
How does being selfish eventually impact oneself negatively?
What are the impacts of optimism on happiness?
How can a single individual make a significant change in the world?
How can meditation improve quality of life?
How has guilt affected your life personally?
How do people do bad things without realizing it?
Why are people afraid of commitment?
How does being in an abusive relationship impact both people?
What is the impact of being a minority on self-identity?
What is the connection between overthinking and depression?
How has the most significant relationship in your life shaped you?
How does getting older impact the ability to learn new things?
Why do people chase a feeling of control?
What are the impacts of living with someone with a mental disorder?
How long does it take to get over a serious breakup?
What are the reasons you want to be rich?
What would make you happy?
What is the best way of using social power?

Interesting Cause and Effect Essay Topics

20 interesting essay topics that will make your essay stand out amongst the crowd. 

What are some of the ways the world would have been different if the axis powers won WWII?
Do strikes and protests work effectively for different types of issues?
What would happen to coastal populations if ocean levels increased by 2 meters?
How much do tv shows and movies impact the way people think about other countries?
What has been the impact of rising internet penetration rates in developing countries?
What social care measures should countries implement in the face of catastrophes like Covid-19?
What is the connection between science and religion?
What would you do if you could become president of the world for 1 year?
How do phytoplankton in the ocean impact life on Earth?
Why is going to college an indicator of long-term happiness?
Why are certain video games popular amongst certain groups?
How does someone decide which music genre is their favorite?
How is artificial intelligence going to change the military and therefore the world?
What makes someone exceptional in their chosen field?
What are the most important characteristics of a good boss?
Can escapism be beneficial in situations such as trauma?
Does living together before marriage hurt or harm the long-term relationship?
What effect do different colors have on mood?
Is the continued growth of technology going to make people value in-person events more?
How has the first amendment impacted countries around the world?

Controversial Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Here are 20 controversial topics to think about. Be warned! You’ll have to do really solid research and make your point eloquently.

What was the impact of American foreign policy during the Cold War?
Does stem cell research have the potential to save millions of lives?
How do genetically modified crops impact the human body?
How do increasing temperatures impact rates of transmissible diseases?
How do oil-producing companies and their lobbies impact the search for renewable energy?
How do fashion companies end up employing children in sweatshops?
Can pizza now be considered an American food?
How do kings, queens, or any form of royalty impact the society of a country?
What are some of the negative outcomes of social Darwinism?
Why did the communism of the Soviet Union fail?
What has China’s one-child policy done to advance economic growth in the country?
How have sedition laws been used to censor free speech?
If artificial intelligence develops sentience, should they be given human rights?
How does a bad president impact that country's international reputation?
What are the roots of Russia’s aggressive international policies?
What are the negative impacts of the introduction of nonnative species?
What are the effects of gun regulation laws on murder rates around the world?
Are certain drugs beneficial for psychiatric treatment?
What was the root of the eugenics movement around the world in the early 1900s?
What has the impact of animal testing been on human health?

Final Thoughts

If you want to delve deep into a particular topic and analyze the causes and effects, a cause and effect essay is the perfect choice for you. It can be a fascinating process if you choose the right topic. This article has provided you with 180 topics to consider and guidelines on selecting a topic. If you need any help with coursework writing , research paper writing service , or custom essay writing , Studyfy's team of professional writers and dissertation writing services can guide you in the right direction. Additionally, their essay editing and proofreading services can help you improve your essay and make it stand out. Choose Studyfy, the best essay service , to help you achieve academic success.

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Ultimate Guide to Writing Your College Essay

Tips for writing an effective college essay.

College admissions essays are an important part of your college application and gives you the chance to show colleges and universities your character and experiences. This guide will give you tips to write an effective college essay.

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Student Story: Admissions essay about personal identity

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Student Story: Admissions essay about community impact

Student story: admissions essay about a past mistake, how to write a college application essay, tips for writing an effective application essay, sample college essay 1 with feedback, sample college essay 2 with feedback.

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Write a Cause-and-Effect Essay

    Follow these six steps to write a cause-and-effect paper. 1. Brainstorm Essay Topics. Coming up with a good cause-and-effect topic involves observing the world and speculating about possible causes for what you see. Consider natural phenomena, social and cultural movements, or the development of ideas. Or perhaps you'll write a cause-and-effect ...

  2. Cause and Effect Essay Writing Guide: Outline, Topics ...

    Step 1: Choose a Topic. The first step in writing a great cause and effect examples essay is choosing the right topic. Consider something that interests you and is relevant to your academic field. The cause and effect essay topics should also be specific enough to allow for in-depth analysis in your assignment.

  3. A Step-by-Step Guide for Writing

    Understanding how to write a cause and effect essay is like putting together a puzzle. Here are ten simple steps to help you write an engaging essay that looks into how things are connected. 1. Select a Specific Topic. Choose a cause and effect relationship that sparks your interest.

  4. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

    Interesting Cause and Effect Essay Topics. If you're looking for an interesting topic for cause and effect essay, this section is for you. Listed below are some good cause and effect essay topics on various popular themes - history, politics, society, and more. Use them as examples to brainstorm ideas of your own. History and politics:

  5. 10.8 Cause and Effect

    The purpose of the cause-and-effect essay is to determine how various phenomena relate in terms of origins and results. Sometimes the connection between cause and effect is clear, but often determining the exact relationship between the two is very difficult. For example, the following effects of a cold may be easily identifiable: a sore throat ...

  6. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: Writing Guide

    The first step in writing a cause and effect essay is brainstorming potential topics and ideas. Consider your personal interests, the relevance of the topic to your audience, and the presence of clear causal relationships to guide your brainstorming process. Some possible areas to explore include: Natural phenomena.

  7. 4.4: Cause and Effect Essays

    Writing a Cause-and-Effect Essay. Choose an event or condition that you think has an interesting cause-and-effect relationship. Introduce your topic in an engaging way. End your introduction with a thesis that states the main cause, the main effect, or both. Organize your essay by starting with either the cause-then-effect structure or the ...

  8. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay (Updated in 2021)

    When you write a cause and effect essay, you are writing an expository essay that has an introduction with a strong thesis statement, followed by the body of the work, and finishing with a conclusion. A short cause and effect essay could literally have only five paragraphs. An essay of one to three pages can be a true five-paragraph essay.

  9. Cause and Effect Essay Writing How-to: Outline, Tips, Examples

    Cause 1: Elaborate on the initial reasoning and its immediate aftermath (s). Cause 2: Delve into the second point, instigated by the result (s) of Cause 1, and its ensuing impact (s). Cause 3: Outline the third basis, influenced by the effect (s) of Cause 2, and its subsequent effect (s). Maintain this pattern for any additional reasons and ...

  10. Writing a Cause and Effect Essay: A Complete Guide

    Step 1: Choose the Essay Topic. Begin by choosing a topic that has significance and relevance. Look for subjects with clear cause-and-effect relationships to ensure your essay has a solid foundation. Consider both personal interests and the potential appeal to your target audience.

  11. Cause and Effect Essay: How to Write It Fast + Example

    A cause and effect essay is a type of academic writing that defines a causal relationship between two objects, events or phenomena. Its main purpose is to explain the impact of one thing on another one. Writing a paper on causal topics requires a clear definition of the cause-and-effect link.

  12. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

    To write a cause and effect essay, start by choosing a topic that interests you, such as the effects of eating fast food. Next, come up with a thesis statement, which is the argument you plan to make. Then, start with a paragraph that introduces the reader to the general topic and presents your thesis in the final sentence or two. After the ...

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    4. Identify The Causes/Effects And Your Supporting Points. If your topic will be cause-focused, identify the effects and its main supporting points or vice versa for the alternative viewpoint. Write these down, and then choose the three strongest points which will fit into your essay body. 5.

  14. Cause and Effect Essay Outline: Types, Examples & Writing Tips

    Cause #1. Cause #2. Cause #3 (and so on…) The effect of the causes. Conclusion. 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.

  15. Cause & Effect Essay

    Cause & Effect Essay. Cause and effect is a rhetorical style that discusses which events lead to specific results. You may find that you are assigned to write a cause and effect essay for a writing class, but you might also encounter cause and effect assignments in other disciplines. For example, you may be asked to write about the causes for ...

  16. Writing cause and effect essays

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  17. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay (Steps & Examples)

    Learn how to write a compelling cause and effect essay in this educational YouTube video. Discover the structure, organization, and effective writing tips to...

  18. How to Write Cause and Effect Essay Effortlessly

    3) Write your thesis statement. List the causes and/or effects, as it will give your reader the view of the situation. Also, highlight whether you will discuss causes, effects, or both in the statement, and do not be afraid to use terms "cause" and "effect". 4) Create the body of your essay.

  19. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

    Writing a Cause and Effect Essay. When you write a cause and effect essay, you need to explain how specific conditions or events translate into certain effects. In other words, your task is to show how one thing leads to another. In most cases, you will need to demonstrate how multiple causes result into one effect, or how only one condition ...

  20. How to Write a Cause & Effect Essay: Examples, Outline, & Tips

    2.1. Cause and effect chain #1: Chlorofluorocarbons were used to make hairsprays 50 years ago, but they are harmful to the ozone layer - some of them are still in the atmosphere ruining ozone molecules. 2.2. Cause and effect chain #2: Less ozone layer causes icebergs to melt faster. 2.3. Cause and effect chain #3.

  21. How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay and Get an A

    There are two ways to approach this type of essay. You can choose an event and then write about what caused that event to occur. Or you can choose an event or phenomenon and delve into how it has affected the world. There are 2 ways to approach cause and effect essays: focus on the causes or focus on the effects. Click To Tweet.

  22. 180 Cause and Effect Essay Topics

    A cause and effect essay is a writing assignment that asks you to explore the causes of certain events and link them to their outcomes. These types of essays can be focussed on the causes, the effects, or both. They can follow the typical 5 paragraph essay format, or they can have more body paragraphs than usual, depending on the complexity of ...

  23. Ultimate Guide to Writing Your College Essay

    This guide will give you tips to write an effective college essay. Want free help with your college essay? UPchieve connects you with knowledgeable and friendly college advisors—online, 24/7, and completely free. Get 1:1 help brainstorming topics, outlining your essay, revising a draft, or editing grammar. ...