informative essay about cause and effect

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Effective strategies and techniques for writing an engaging and informative cause and effect essay to captivate readers and convey key ideas clearly and coherently.

Writing is an art that allows us to express our thoughts, ideas, and emotions. It serves as a powerful medium to convey messages, inspire change, and provoke deep reflection in others. A well-written essay has the ability to captivate readers, making them question, analyze, and ultimately understand the subject matter at hand. In the realm of academic writing, cause and effect essays hold a special place. They provide a structured framework to illustrate the relationship between different events, phenomena, and actions, ultimately shedding light on the consequences that arise from specific causes.

When it comes to crafting an effective cause and effect essay, it is crucial to carefully analyze and understand the intricate web of connections that exist between various elements. This type of essay requires a meticulous approach, as every cause and every effect must be explored in detail to grasp their significance fully. Each paragraph should offer a clear and logical analysis, supported by relevant evidence and examples, in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Moreover, a successful cause and effect essay should demonstrate the writer’s ability to think critically and engage in deep analysis. It requires the writer to go beyond merely stating the obvious connections and venture into the realm of uncovering underlying causes and lesser-known effects. This level of depth not only showcases the writer’s understanding of the topic but also challenges the readers to think critically and question their preconceived notions.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of writing a powerful cause and effect essay. Step by step, we will explore the key components, techniques, and strategies that will help you craft an essay that leaves a lasting impact. From choosing a compelling topic to outlining your ideas, from conducting thorough research to organizing your thoughts, this guide will equip you with the necessary tools to tackle any cause and effect essay with confidence and finesse.

Choose a compelling topic

Before diving into the process of writing a cause and effect essay, it is crucial to choose a topic that is both compelling and interesting. The topic you select will determine the direction and focus of your essay, so it is important to choose carefully.

When selecting a topic, consider something that is relatable and relevant to your audience. It should be something that they can connect with and understand. Additionally, try to choose a topic that has a significant impact or consequence, as this will make your essay more thought-provoking and compelling to read.

Brainstorm ideas and make a list of potential topics. Look for topics that have causal relationships that can be explored and analyzed. You can also consider current events or issues that are trending in the news or society. These topics are often controversial and can lead to powerful discussions and debates.

Once you have a list of potential topics, evaluate them based on personal interest and knowledge. It is easier to write about a topic that you are passionate about or have some understanding of. Research the topic further to ensure that there is enough information available to support your arguments and claims.

Remember that your topic choice will set the stage for the rest of your essay, so take your time and choose wisely. A compelling topic will captivate your audience and make your essay more impactful.

Conduct thorough research on the topic

To write an informative and impactful cause and effect essay, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on the chosen topic. Research provides a solid foundation for your essay, allowing you to gather relevant and accurate information to support your arguments.

When conducting research, make sure to explore a variety of credible sources such as books, academic journals, expert opinions, and reputable websites. This will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic and ensure the accuracy and reliability of your information.

Take your time to read and analyze the available sources, highlighting key points, data, and statistics that are relevant to your essay. Look for patterns, trends, and causal relationships that you can incorporate into your writing.

It is also essential to consider different perspectives and opinions on the topic. Engage with diverse viewpoints to gain a well-rounded understanding and develop a nuanced argument in your essay.

While researching, be sure to take detailed notes and properly cite your sources. This will help you avoid plagiarism and ensure that you provide proper credit to the original authors.

Remember to critically evaluate the information you gather during your research. Look for reliable sources that are based on well-established research and avoid using unreliable or biased information.

By conducting thorough research, you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and understanding to write an effective cause and effect essay. Your research findings will form the backbone of your essay and allow you to present well-supported arguments and conclusions.

Create a clear thesis statement

In order to write a compelling cause and effect essay, it is essential to start with a clear and well-defined thesis statement. The thesis statement serves as the main idea or argument of your essay, providing a roadmap for the reader to understand the cause-and-effect relationship you will be exploring. A strong thesis statement not only sets the tone for the entire essay but also helps you stay focused and organized as you develop your argument.

A compelling thesis statement:

• Clearly states the cause and its corresponding effect
• Expresses a strong opinion or position
• Demonstrates the significance of the cause-effect relationship

When creating your thesis statement, it is important to be specific and concise. Avoid vague language or broad statements that lack focus. Instead, strive for clarity and precision in your wording to ensure that your thesis statement effectively conveys the main point of your essay.

Develop a strong outline

Creating a well-structured outline is crucial when crafting a compelling cause and effect essay. A strong outline serves as a roadmap for your writing, guiding you in organizing your ideas and presenting them in a logical and coherent manner.

An effective outline helps you identify the main points you want to discuss in your essay, as well as the relationships between them. It allows you to plan the flow of your arguments and ensure that you provide sufficient evidence and examples to support your claims. Additionally, an outline helps you avoid repetition and tangential discussions, keeping your essay focused and on-topic.

As you develop your outline, consider the cause and effect relationship you want to explore in your essay. Determine whether you will focus on a single cause with multiple effects, a single effect with multiple causes, or a combination of both. Use strong topic sentences to introduce your main points and sub-points, ensuring they are interconnected and build upon one another to create a cohesive and balanced argument.

Remember to revise and refine your outline as you conduct research and gather evidence for your essay. Your outline should evolve as you uncover new information and insights, enabling you to incorporate them into your essay seamlessly. By putting effort into developing a strong outline, you set yourself up for success by establishing a clear structure and direction for your cause and effect essay.

Use proper transitions to connect ideas

In order to effectively convey the cause and effect relationship in your essay, it is essential to use appropriate transitional words and phrases to connect your ideas. These transitions help guide the reader through your essay and make it easier to understand how one idea leads to another.

Transitions act as bridges, connecting different parts of your essay and making it flow smoothly. They provide a sense of coherence and logical progression, allowing the reader to follow your thought process and understand the causal relationship between events or phenomena.

Examples of commonly used transitions include words like “therefore,” “thus,” “consequently,” “as a result,” and “because.” These words indicate cause and effect, and provide a clear connection between the ideas being presented. Other transitional words like “however,” “on the other hand,” and “in contrast” can be used to show a contrast or opposition between ideas.

In addition to single-word transitions, you can also use transitional phrases and clauses to effectively connect your ideas. Phrases like “due to,” “owing to,” “in light of,” and “in order to” can be used to explain the cause or reason behind a certain effect. Similarly, phrases like “as a result of,” “resulting in,” and “consequently” can be used to explain the effect or consequence of a specific cause.

Using transitions not only enhances the clarity and coherence of your essay, but also improves its overall quality. It helps the reader follow your thought process, understand the cause and effect relationships, and makes your essay more convincing and persuasive.

Support the cause and effect relationship with evidence

Substantiating the cause and effect relationship is a crucial aspect of writing an impactful essay. To convince your readers and make your arguments more persuasive, it is important to provide evidence that supports the causal connections you propose.

One effective way to provide evidence is through the use of statistics and data. Numbers can add credibility to your claims and strengthen the cause and effect relationship you are presenting. For example, if you are discussing the effects of climate change on the environment, you can cite specific data on rising temperatures, melting ice caps, or changes in weather patterns.

Additionally, anecdotal evidence can be used to support your arguments. Personal stories or experiences can provide a human element to your essay, making the cause and effect relationship more relatable to your readers. When using anecdotes, it is important to ensure that they are relevant and representative of the broader topic you are discussing.

Expert opinions and quotes can also serve as valuable evidence to back up your claims. Including viewpoints from authorities in the field can lend credibility to your arguments and strengthen the cause and effect relationship you are presenting. Be sure to attribute the opinions and quotes to their respective sources to maintain accuracy and integrity in your work.

In addition to these forms of evidence, it is important to conduct thorough research to find supporting studies, experiments, or examples that validate your claims. Well-researched evidence can strengthen the cause and effect relationship in your essay, making your arguments more convincing and effective.

Furthermore, it is crucial to present the evidence in a clear and organized manner. Utilizing tables or charts can help summarize and present complex data in an easily understandable format. This visual representation can enhance the clarity of your arguments and make the cause and effect relationship more accessible to your readers.

In summary, supporting the cause and effect relationship with evidence is essential in writing a compelling essay. Using statistics, anecdotes, expert opinions, and well-researched evidence can strengthen your arguments and make your essay more persuasive. Presenting the evidence in a clear and organized manner, such as through the use of tables, can further enhance the impact of your writing.

Edit and revise your essay for clarity and coherence

After completing your initial draft, it’s important to thoroughly edit and revise your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. Editing allows you to refine and polish your ideas, while revision helps you to enhance the overall flow and organization of your essay.

When editing your essay, pay attention to the clarity of your ideas. Make sure that your sentences are clear and concise, and that your ideas are expressed in a logical and coherent manner. Eliminate any unnecessary repetition or redundancy, and ensure that each paragraph and sentence contributes to the overall theme and purpose of your essay.

During the revision process, focus on the coherence of your essay. Check that your ideas are connected and presented in a logical order. Make sure that each paragraph transitions smoothly into the next, and that the overall structure of your essay is coherent and easy to follow.

As you edit and revise, pay attention to your grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Ensure that you are using proper grammar and punctuation throughout your essay, and check for any spelling errors or typos. A well-edited and revised essay is not only clear and coherent, but also free from grammatical and spelling mistakes.

• Check that your introduction effectively introduces the topic and thesis statement, and that your conclusion effectively wraps up your essay.
• Read your essay aloud to identify any awkward or unclear sentences, and make necessary corrections.
• Ask a friend or classmate to read your essay and provide feedback, as a fresh set of eyes can often catch errors or areas for improvement that you may have overlooked.

In conclusion, editing and revising your essay is an essential step in the writing process. By ensuring clarity and coherence, you can effectively convey your ideas to your readers and present a well-crafted and polished essay.

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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.

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

20 June, 2020

9 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

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

What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

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

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

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

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

Types of the Cause and Effect Essay

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

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

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

1. Many causes, one effect

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

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

Here is how to structure this type of essay:

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

2. One cause, many effects

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

Here is the structure for this kind of essay:

• Effect #3 (and so on…)

3. Chain of causes and effects

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

Here is the outline structure:

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

Cause and Effect Essay Outline Example

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cause and Effect Essay Sample

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

Tips and Common Mistakes from Our Expert Writers

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

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Cause And Effect Essay Writing

Cause And Effect Essay

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

A Guide to Cause and Effect Essay | Samples + Topics

By: Leanne R.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jun 9, 2020

A cause and effect essay is another type of expository essay explaining why one thing happens and how it affects the other.

Cause and effect essay writing is based on how an event or thing affects another event. Such essays explain this cause and effect relationship between different things and inform the readers about it.

These effects could both be short and long term.

This blog will make you understand how to write a cause and effect essay step by step and will also provide samples to help you.

On this Page

What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

In this world, everything is inherently interconnected.

The rain makes the soil wet, and the plants grow. In the domino effect, when one domino is toppled, it hits the next, and then the next, and so forth, etc.

To understand the question of what does cause and effect mean, this essay will explore the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of a situation.

Cause and effect essay definition states that such an essay serves to illustrate why certain things occur or situations arise. It also examines the consequences of those events, actions or phenomena.

School students and college students equally struggle with writing correctly structured essays that depict precise and factual information.

If you are a high school or college student; chances are that you will have to write this type of essay.

Staying on this website will equip you with the skills to analyze the events and deliver an impactful cause and effect essay.

The theme of this essay type revolves around the causes and multiple effects of certain issues, problems or situations.

Types of Cause and Effect Essay

At a basic level, these essays are of three types.

1. Effect-Focused Method

The analysis is focused on one or multiple effects that the occurrence of an event has had.

2. Cause-Focused Method

The analysis is focused on the different causes that lead to the event.

3. Causes and Effects-Focused Method

The analysis is focused on both the causes and the effects. The reason why something happened and the impacts it had.

The major aim of these essays is to develop student’s skills in analyzing the events in depth.

These essays test the ability of students to present analytical and problem-solving skills involving various topics that impact our lives and our societies.

Effective topics may revolve around the following subject matters: social, political, medical, environmental and food-related issues. Cause and effect essay topic for college is mostly based on these subjects.

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Cause and Effect Essay Structure

There are 2 main structures of writing a cause and effect essay. You need to choose one before starting your essay.

1. Block structure

In a block structure essay, you will first write all the causes and then all the effects of your topic.

In block structure, there can be an effect-focused essay or a cause-focused essay.

Here is a visual representation of a block structure for your essay

2. Chain Structure

In the chain structure, you have to write a cause followed by its effect. Every cause should be followed by its possible effect. This is what your essay will look like if you follow the chain structure.

Some of the effective essay topics can be written efficiently by following the block structure. While some others fit into the chain structure.

It all depends on the choice and expertise of the students to present their points in an effective and convincing manner.

Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Before moving towards writing an essay, drafting an outline is quite important. It is essential in the case of writing a cause and effect essay because students have to consider the causes and effects of some issue or situation, without missing anything.

An essay outline provides the chance of following a specific guideline to ensure all the instructions are followed efficiently.

In order to write a  cause and effect essay outline , you can follow this simple structure.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay?

Writing based on personal beliefs and opinions shatters the whole purpose of such essays. You can’t make a logical argument regarding the cause and effects of a particular situation or action.

You therefore need sound reasoning and authentic examples to prove your point.

Staying on this website will allow you the opportunity of learning the tips to create impactful content.

1. Choose an Engaging and Significant Essay Topic

Selecting a topic is the easiest but trickiest part.

Students often get confused when it comes to how to write a cause and effect essay. Because they choose a topic for a cause and effect essay, which sets them for failure.

If you plan to choose the title “My Visit to my Grandparents’ House” and think it is correct as you will write the effects of your visit in the essay, then you are wrong!

Your topic should be based on logic and you should create a connection between the events.

For instance, if you choose the title “Effect of grandparents on my personality”, then this is an effective topic.

Cause and effects of the second world war on the United States or anorexia nervosa are also perfect effect essay topics.

Looking for more topics for your cause and effect essay?

Feel free to explore these cause and effect essay topics and pick any topic of your choice.

2. Start Your Research

After topic selection, move to the research section.

First tip: don’t go straight to the paper and start writing your first draft. Take a deep breath and analyze all aspects of the topic.

Ask questions! Why? What? How? When?

• Why is it happening?
• How is it happening?
• How did it start?
• What caused it?
• How will it influence the future?
• How is it influencing at the moment?

Look at the present state of the topic. Inspect the previous stages and analyze future effects!

The more you research the more familiar you will become with the topic at hand. And it will help understand different aspects of your topic, giving you better ideas to write.

Along with reading different journals, scholarly articles, books for information, another helpful source is cause and effect essay samples. Go through different samples written by other students, this will not only give you insight about your topic, but will also help understand the essay structure better.

3. Craft a Thesis Statement

Once you have decided on your topic and gathered relevant information, the next step is to craft a thesis. The thesis statement of your essay will inform the reader why you chose the particular topic, its importance and the purpose of the paper.

Keep in mind that your thesis shouldn’t be personal. Consider the feelings of your audience and they should also be able to resonate with it. Give reasons as to why you care about a particular issue, that others will understand as well.

Go check out this article for a better understanding of writing a thesis statement

4. Write a Rough Draft

Don’t rush to put words down on paper.

Collect your thoughts and write down all the ideas and important points on paper. Your rough draft can be based only on these key points.

Don’t worry about making it perfect at this stage. Just jot down your thoughts, assemble them and perfect it later.

To write an effective essay, a structured outline should be followed. Once you are done writing, it is essential to polish your final draft.

5. Write a Cause and Effect Essay Introduction

You must have heard the phrase “the first impression is the last impression.” Similarly, the impression that your essay introduction leaves on the reader decides whether they will read further or not.

To make sure that the reader is impressed by your opening lines and is intrigued to learn more, use an attention grabber – hook.

A hook sentence acts as a tool to attract the reader’s attention, motivating them to read further. There are different types of hook sentences that you can use depending on your topic. Learn more about them from our blog on hook examples.

The next step is making your audience/reader familiar with the essay topic. Begin with a general introduction to the topic followed by the thesis statement. Understand the difference between cause and effect before you start writing. Give a general idea of your topic in the first paragraph.

The most important part of the introduction is the thesis statement. A thesis statement is the foundation of your essay and informs the reader of the purpose of writing the essay. Relate your topic to the current situation and its importance.

6. Compose and Arrange the Body Paragraphs

It is important to provide plenty of details you have collected on your topic regarding the causes and effects of your topic.

Assemble all the data with relevant examples to create credibility in your academic writing. The cause and effect essay should be based entirely on facts.

Link the causes to the effects using transitional words in your body paragraphs.

Successfully linking causes and effects depends on the approach you are following for your essay.

You may use either one of the structures mentioned above to present the causes and effects of your topic.

7. End with a Powerful Conclusion

Restate the thesis statement that you proposed in the introductory paragraph in the last paragraph. A well-written and precise conclusion gives closure to the entire argument and context of the essay.

Cause and effect essays are easy to write, just stay focused and try to create impact through your words and use of evidence.

• Use purpose-specific vocabulary.
• Use transitional words.
• State ideas chronologically.
• Never overlap ideas.

Doing so will create chaos in your essay and the reader won’t be able to understand the information stated in the paragraphs.

When writing the body section, dedicate each paragraph to separate the ideas.

Every paragraph should have a separate topic sentence that clearly defines its purpose. Now you can start your essay writing .

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Cause and Effect Essay Examples

Following are a few cause and effect essay samples which will help you explore cause and effect essay prompts.

CAUSE AND EFFECT ESSAY SAMPLE

CAUSE AND EFFECT ESSAY EXAMPLE

CAUSE AND EFFECT ESSAY ON DIVORCE

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Here are some good cause and effect essay topics:

• Results of financial independence in a romantic relationship.
• How does social anxiety impact teenagers?
• How does acne affect someone’s confidence?
• Reasons for sibling rivalry and its effects.
• Reasons why teenagers rebel.
• Causes of job dissatisfaction.
• Forced marriages and their results.
• Causes of domestic violence.
• What are the causes for men’s commitment phobia?
• Cramming doesn’t help score better.
• People from a broken family have unhappier marriages.
• Effects of social media on teenagers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of a cause and effect essay.

Cause and effect papers use strong analytical skills to examine the reasons for or outcomes of an event. These are often written as a way in which someone could potentially discover how something happened.

Such as why one particular decision led them down their current path-or if there were any other factors involved that caused the said outcome

Why is it important to know cause and effect?

Knowledge is power. Understanding how a single event can result in multiple effects, and then pinpointing that one cause for each of those results will help the students develop into analytical thinkers with the ability to work on their own.

What is the importance of cause and effect in our daily lives?

A person who can think about the interconnected causes and effects of social events will be more successful in their day-to-day life. It's no surprise, then, that if you have this skill set your chances for success with solving real-world problems are much greater!

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How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay: Full Guide

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.

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.

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:

• 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.

Let's Turn Those 'What Ifs' into 'A+ Ifs'!

Don't procrastinate when you can cause an effect on your grades right now!

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is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

Writing essays is inevitable for all students. And while many of them consider this kind of academic assignment difficult and boring, others truly enjoy writing their essays on the widest array of topics. Do you want to know their secret? It’s simple: they just know how to write essays well! And those who don't also have a solution – they are ready to pay for essay best services to get completed paper without a hassle. Finding the essay writing service out there to fall back on is great but honing your own writing skills will never go amiss.

If you are reading this article, then you’re already on your way to start loving essay writing. By the time you finish reading it, you will have all the necessary instruments at hand to craft an impressive essay of one particular type – that is, a cause and effect essay (sometimes also called cause-effect or reason and result essay).

What Is a Cause and Effect Essay?

It is impossible to do something well without knowing what exactly it is that you have to do. So, let’s start with the basics – the cause and effect essay definition.

A cause and effect essay (also called cause-effect or reason and result essay) is a type of an analytical academic paper in which the relationship between causes and effects of a particular event or phenomenon is being analyzed. It usually answers the questions, “why?” (cause) and “what is the result?” (effect), and utilizes subjunctive mood extensively. If already at this moment you feel you're unlikely to be able to cope with writing an essay yourself – relax and get help from professional dissertation writing services .

How to Make a Correct Cause and Effect Essay Structure

Now that we know what a cause and effect essay is, we can start working on its structure. Having a clear structure is essential for the successful completion of your assignment. So, it’s highly important to devote enough time to this part of the task. If you think it's pretty challenging for you or you simply don't want to spend time on it, you can always look for coursework writing help , custom essay writing and get help from experts in the field.

There are two main ways to structure a cause and effect essay – using a block or a chain pattern. Your essay outline will differ depending on what option you choose.

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Cause and Effect Essay Outline

A cause and effect essay outline consists of a minimum of four sections – an introduction, at least two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each section, in turn, consists of several parts, and their contents vary depending on what pattern – block or chain – you choose.

Let’s start with a block structure.  This is how it will look like:

• Introduction;
• Body paragraph I: cause;
• Body paragraph II: effect;
• Conclusion.

Depending on your topic and approach, you can focus more on the effects or the causes and have various numbers of both. For example, if you put the main focus on the effects, your outline may look like this:

• Body paragraph I: effect #1;
• Body paragraph II: effect #2;
• Body paragraph III: cause;

If you choose the chain pattern, it will mean that in your body paragraphs, every cause will be immediately followed by its effect. The outline will then be as follows:

• Body paragraph I: cause #1 -> effect #1;
• Body paragraph II: cause #2 -> effect #2;   

In this case, too, the numbers of causes and effects may vary – it is their sequence that matters.

Now, let’s look closer at every section of the structure.

Introduction

Every essay starts with an introduction. In this section, you must introduce your topic to the reader, give some background information, and explain how you’re going to approach the discussion.

This is what an introduction section of a cause and effect essay must include:

• Background information;
• Thesis statement.

If you’re wondering how to start a cause and effect essay, you can use some of the proven techniques like using a quote, a rhetorical question, or a statement that is surprising or paradoxical. Then, after giving some background information, move on to a thesis statement.

A thesis is the part of your essay in which the main point of discussion is stated. It should be clear and concise and allow no ambiguity.

Example: “The gender gap is still very far from being closed. Globally, gender parity stands at 68.6%, according to the Global Gender Gap Report (2020). In this essay, we’ll look closely at some of the causes and effects of this phenomenon”.

Body Paragraphs (Causes)

Depending on what type of structure you choose, your body paragraphs may be slightly different. But, in any case, they should contain the following elements:

• thesis (main cause or effect);
• arguments (evidence);
• conclusion, and transition to the next section.

These may be arranged in a different way, but their presence is essential. Let’s again turn to our gender inequality topic and see how it works. In the causes section, we will list the various causes of the discussed phenomena:

• Cause #1 – societal mindset;
• Cause #2 – lack of sufficient childcare;
• Cause #3 – lack of political representation.

Each of these causes should be supported by evidence to be persuasive to the reader. This is how it may be put in a paragraph:

“One of the main causes of such inequality is the societal mindset that still regards women as primarily being responsible for providing home comfort and childcare. Most men still expect their wives to stay at home and sacrifice their careers in order to take the majority of household responsibilities (support with evidence – statistical figures, etc.).

Treat the next causes in the same manner.

Body Paragraphs (Effects)

This paragraph is basically the same as the previous one, with the only difference that here, we will discuss the effects of the phenomenon. Let’s continue with our topic:

• Effect #1 – higher levels of frustration;
• Effect #2 – lower income;
• Effect #3 – feelings of insecurity and vulnerability.

Keep in mind that the effects must be direct consequences of your causes – you can’t just pick random facts. You should also make that connection clear in your text.

Example: “Such prejudiced societal mindset regarding women and their role in the society results in higher levels of frustration among women. They feel that they have reached their glass ceiling just because of the fact that they have been born female – i.e., something they just couldn’t affect in any way (support with evidence)”.

Then, go on in the same manner in the next body-effects paragraphs.

After you’ve discussed all the causes and effects that you planned, continue with making a short conclusion. It must contain the following points:

• Reiteration of your thesis;
• Short summary of the essay’s key points;
• Concluding afterthoughts.

This is what it will look like in our case:

“As we see, gender inequality is still a pressing issue in the modern world, and it’s far from being solved. This phenomenon has multiple causes, the most obvious of which are society’s prejudiced attitude, lack of childcare, and lack of political representation for women. The effects of these problems are plausible: women end up feeling frustrated, having lower income, and being generally vulnerable. In order to change the situation, we mustn’t avoid discussions of this issue and should try to find solutions to the problems that cause it”.

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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:

• The economic consequences of the Civil War in the U.S.
• The collapse of the Soviet Union and its effect on the world’s power balance.
• World War II and its effect on the world economy.
• Brexit: was it necessary and how it will affect the U.K.
• Gender inequality as a major source of stress for modern women.
• How having children changes the life of a family.
• Social media as the major source of procrastination for students.
• Why do people commit crimes?
• How outstanding writing skills can help your future career.
• Burnout at work as a major career threat.
• Why it is important to go to college.
• Starting a business as a student. How it can affect your studies and future career.  

Environment:

• Air pollution as one of the main threats to public health.
• The effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the environment.
• How melting glaciers in the Arctic affect climate change on our planet.
• Multiple effects of global warming on the Earth’s population.
• Why we all need to go green right now.

Cause and Effect Essay Examples

Now that you have all the tools necessary to create a good cause and effect essay of your own let’s look at an example to see how all the components work together. Let’s assume that our topic is “Procrastination among college students.” Here, we will use a block structure, and this is how our example cause and effect essay will look like.

Procrastination Among College Students.

Our first paragraph is an introduction. Here we introduce our topic with a hook statement, give some background information, and make a thesis statement. 

Procrastination is dangerous for college students. At the same time, it’s extremely common among them: various studies show that up to 95% of college students engage in it from time to time, and almost 50% do this systematically. The causes of this phenomenon are multi-faceted and profound, and it’s vital to discover them in every particular case to be able to fight procrastination effectively. But to start treating procrastination as a problem, students must be aware of its harmful consequences. There are many of them, but one of the most acute ones for college students is its negative effect on their academic performance.

Here, the topic suggests that we have to focus more on the effects than on the causes, so the first body paragraph will be about an effect mentioned in the title. First, we will name the effect and then bring arguments and evidence to support our claim.

Procrastination is putting off things one has to do till the last minute and spending one’s time on some other, less important occupations. When students procrastinate instead of doing their academic assignments, they usually end up not having enough time to complete their tasks properly by the deadline. As a result, they only do what they can in the amount of time left, and the quality of their work may suffer. For most students, it means receiving lower grades than they could have achieved had they spent their time more wisely. And this is not a mere assumption: a study conducted by Warwick Business School has proven that procrastination leads students to lower grades (2019). One may argue that it depends largely on how gifted a student is, but even the talented ones may get to the point when the assignment is so difficult that they cannot do it well quickly.

Our second body paragraph will be about another effect. We will write it using the same scheme as in the previous paragraph.

What’s worse, procrastination can also cause mental health problems among students (Source, year). When a person finds out that they only have several hours to complete an assignment that requires several days to be done well, they are most likely to succumb to anxiety. Science proves this, too: for example, a 2010 study titled “I’ll Go to Therapy, Eventually” found a clear connection between procrastination and poorer mental health. Then, worries about failing to do a task properly resulted in even more anxiety and stress, and if a student eventually gets a lower grade than expected, it may lead to a feeling of guilt, regret, and even to depression, especially if the situation is repeated often.

In the third body paragraph, we will talk about the causes. 

It may be tempting to just label students who keep putting off their assignments as sluggards, but there are more complex and profound reasons for procrastination than mere laziness. As A. Chris Heath, MD, a psychiatrist from Dallas, says, procrastination usually happens because the task seems too difficult. It can also be an issue of self-esteem, he adds, – when a person thinks he or she is not good enough to cope with a demanding task. There are many other causes for procrastination among students, like having trouble concentrating or not possessing enough organizational skills. But whatever the reasons are, the results procrastination leads to are always devastating.

Conclusion. Here, we reiterate our thesis, site the significance of the topic, and add some afterthoughts.

As we see now, procrastination is a huge problem for college students. Being considered a result of pure laziness by many, it is often overlooked as a common problem. But this approach can be very dangerous.

In reality, procrastination has deeper roots, and the effects it causes are quite harmful. If treated lightly, systematic procrastination eventually leads college students to lower grades, mental health problems, and poorer overall academic performance.

So, it’s essential for every college student not to ignore the problem and find the causes of procrastination in their particular case as early as possible to be able to avoid its dreadful consequences.

That’s it! Feel free to use this essay as a model to generate your unique cause and effect essay ideas. If you need another example, download cause and effect essay sample here.   

Wrapping Up

In this article, we’ve covered all the important issues on how to write a cause and effect essay. After reading it thoroughly, you should know what a cause and effect essay is, how to structure it well, and make an outline that will work. We’ve also explained how to work on every paragraph of your text and provided some good essay topics as well as examples of a cause and effect essay with commentary. 

Still puzzled about how to write your cause and effect essay properly? Get instant write a paper for me help from professional editors and writers.  With such detailed instruction, you cannot fail, if you are diligent enough to practice writing essays on your own using the information given. Don’t get downhearted if you won’t be able to write a flawless paper from the first try; remember: practice makes perfect. So, put effort into your essay writing, and this will pay you back in the future – not only with excellent marks but with better critical thinking and logical skills, too.

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Cause And Effect Essay Writing

How to Write Cause and Effect Essays in Simple Steps

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Published on: Mar 13, 2020

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

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Are you struggling to wrap your head around cause and effect essays? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. 

These essays might seem complex at first glance, but with the right approach, they can become easier to write.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll look into what cause and effect essays are, how to structure them, and provide valuable tips and examples to help you understand this type of writing.

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What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

A cause and effect essay is a type of essay writing that explores the relationship between events, actions, or phenomena (causes) and their outcomes or consequences (effects) . 

In this type of essay, the writer analyzes how one event leads to another, providing insights into the underlying causes and the resulting effects. Cause and effect essays aim to explain the connections between various occurrences and explain the reasons behind certain outcomes. 

They often require critical thinking, careful analysis, and the use of evidence and examples to support arguments.

You may confuse cause-and-effect essays with compare and contrast essays . While cause and effect essays focus on analyzing the relationship between events, compare and contrast essays examine similarities and differences between two or more subjects or ideas.

How to Structure a Cause and Effect Essay

There are two main structural types commonly used to write a cause and effect essay: the block structure and the chain structure.

Block Structure

In the block structure, the writer first discusses all the causes of the event in one section, followed by a separate section dedicated to discussing all the effects.

This cause and effect essay format allows for a clear separation between the causes and effects, making it easier for the reader to understand the relationships between them.

Use the block structure when:

• There are multiple causes and effects to discuss, and you want to provide a comprehensive overview of each.
• You prefer a clear separation between causes and effects for easier understanding.

Chain Structure

In the chain structure, each cause is followed immediately by its corresponding effect(s), creating a chain-like sequence of events.

This structure emphasizes the direct relationship between each cause and its effect, providing a more immediate and interconnected narrative.

Use the chain structure when:

• You want to emphasize the direct relationship between each cause and its effect.
• You're discussing a series of events that occur in a linear or chronological order.

Cause and Effect Essay Outline

Creating an outline is essential for organizing your thoughts and structuring your cause and effect essay effectively. 

Here's a basic outline to guide you through the writing process:

Need a detailed outline guide? Be sure to check out our blog on " Cause and Effect Essay Outline " for a comprehensive breakdown of how to organize your essay.

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

Writing a cause and effect essay involves examining the reasons (causes) and outcomes (effects) of a particular event, phenomenon, or situation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you craft an effective cause and effect essay:

Step 1: Choose a Topic

Start by selecting a topic that interests you and has clear cause-and-effect relationships. It could be a social issue, scientific phenomenon, historical event, or any other subject with identifiable causes and effects. 

For example, "The Effects of Climate Change on Wildlife Populations" or "Causes of Obesity in Developed Countries."

Step 2: Conduct Research

Gather relevant information and evidence to support your thesis statement . Look for credible sources such as academic journals, books, government reports, and reputable websites. 

Ensure you have a thorough understanding of both the causes and effects related to your chosen topic.

Step 4: Develop a Thesis Statement

Craft a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main causes and effects you will discuss in your essay. Your thesis should provide a roadmap for the reader and clearly state your position on the topic. 

For instance, "The rise in carbon emissions from human activities is leading to severe consequences for global ecosystems."

Step 5: Outline your Essay

Create a structured outline that organizes your ideas and arguments logically. Divide your essay into introduction , body paragraphs (each discussing a specific cause or effect), and conclusion . 

Each body paragraph should focus on one cause or effect and provide supporting details and evidence.

Step 6: Write the Introduction

Begin with an engaging introduction that provides background information on the topic and introduces your thesis statement. 

Hook the reader's attention with an interesting fact, statistic, or anecdote related to your topic. Clearly state the purpose of your essay and preview the main points you will discuss.

Step 7: Body Paragraphs

In the body paragraphs, explore the causes or effects of the topic in detail. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the cause or effect you will be discussing. 

Then, provide evidence and examples to support your claim. Use data, statistics, expert opinions, and real-life examples to strengthen your arguments. Make sure to explain the causal relationship between the factors you're discussing.

Step 8: Transition Between Paragraphs

Use transition words and sentences to smoothly transition between paragraphs and maintain coherence throughout your essay. 

These transitions help guide the reader through your arguments and ensure a logical flow of ideas.

Step 9: Write the Conclusion

Summarize the main points of your essay in the conclusion and restate your thesis statement. Reflect on the significance of your findings and emphasize the importance of understanding the causes and effects of the topic. 

Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, offer insights or suggestions for further research or action.

Step 10: Revise and Edit

Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. Make sure each paragraph contributes to the overall argument and that your ideas are well-supported by evidence.

Once you've made revisions and edits, finalize your essay by formatting it according to the guidelines provided by your instructor or publication. 

Double-check citations and references to ensure they are accurate and properly formatted according to the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

Cause and Effect Essay Examples

When writing a cause and effect essay for the first time, it is recommended to go through a few examples. It will help you understand the structure and how to use a method effectively.

The following are some of the great cause and effect examples free to use.

Cause and Effect Essay

Cause and Effect Essay Sample

Climate Change Cause and Effect Essay

Poverty Cause and Effect Essay

Air Pollution Cause and Effect Essay

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Here are some cause and effect essay topics:

• The Impact of Climate Change on Extreme Weather Events
• The Rise of Mental Health Disorders Among Adolescents
• The Effects of Social Media on Political Polarization
• The Consequences of Deforestation on Biodiversity Loss
• The Relationship Between Income Inequality and Social Mobility
• The Impact of Technology on Human Relationships
• The Causes and Effects of the Global Obesity Epidemic
• The Effects of Air Pollution on Public Health
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
• The Causes and Consequences of Refugee Crises

These topics reflect current societal concerns and offer opportunities for in-depth analysis of cause-and-effect relationships. If you need more such ideas check out our cause and effect essay topics  blog!

Tips for Writing a Cause and Effect Essay

Here are additional tips for writing a cause and effect essay:

• Establish Clear Connections: Clearly establish the causal relationships between different factors to help readers understand the cause-and-effect dynamics of the topic.
• Avoid Oversimplification: Recognize that most events have multiple causes and effects, so avoid oversimplifying complex phenomena by considering various factors and their interactions.
• Consider Chronology: When discussing historical events, consider the chronological sequence of causes and effects to provide a clear narrative structure.
• Focus on Significance: Highlight the significance of your findings by discussing the broader implications of the causes and effects you've identified.
• Reflect and Synthesize: In the conclusion, reflect on the insights gained from analyzing the causes and effects and synthesize your findings to provide a cohesive understanding of the topic.

To conclude, writing a cause and effect essay can be a rewarding experience that allows you to look into complex issues. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and applying your critical thinking skills, you can create compelling essays that inform and engage your audience. 

But if you are in a time crunch do not hesitate to take professional help. CollegeEssay.org provides a top cause and effect essay writing service for those students who are having a hard time meeting deadlines. We'll help you with your cause and effects essays for the best grades. 

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Cause & effect essays Aka reason and result

The Cause and effect essay is another common essay type, either as an essay type on its own, or as part of a larger essay which includes one or more paragraphs examining causes and effects. This page gives information on what a cause and effect essay is , how to structure this type of essay, and how to use cause and effect structure words (transition signals) for this type of essay. There is also an example cause and effect essay on the topic of women at work, as well as some exercises to help you practice this area.

What are cause & effect essays?

For another look at the same content, check out YouTube » or Youku » , or this infographic » .

A cause and effect essay looks at the reasons (or causes) for something, then discusses the results (or effects). For this reason, cause and effect essays are sometimes referred to as reason and result essays. They are one of the most common forms of organisation in academic writing. Sometimes the whole essay will be cause and effect, though sometimes this may be only part of the whole essay. It is also possible, especially for short exam essays, that only the causes or the effects, not both, are discussed. See the examples below.

• Discuss the causes and effects of global warming ['cause and effect' essay]
• Explain the high death rate in Chernobyl ['causes' only essay]
• Discuss the WTO and its effects on the Chinese economy ['effects' only essay]

There are two main ways to structure a cause and effect essay. These are similar to the ways to structure problem-solution essays , namely using a block or a chain structure. For the block structure, all of the causes are listed first, and all of the effects are listed afterwards. For the chain structure, each cause is followed immediately by the effect. Usually that effect will then be the cause of the next effect, which is why this structure is called 'chain'. Both types of structure have their merits. The former is generally clearer, especially for shorter essays, while the latter ensures that any effects you present relate directly to the causes you have given.

The two types of structure, block and chain , are shown in the diagram below.

Cause and Effect Structure Words

Cause and effect structure words are transition signals which show the cause and effect relationships. It is important to be clear which is the cause (or reason) and which is the effect (or result), and to use the correct transition word or phrase. Remember that a cause happens first , and the effect happens later .

Below are some common cause and effect structure words. X is used to indicate a cause, while Y is used to indicate the effect.

• The first cause of (Y) is (X)
• The next reason is (X)
• Because of (X), (Y)
• As a result of (X), (Y)
• As a consequence of (X), (Y)
• because/since/as (X)
• to result from (X)
• (X) results in (Y)
• to be the result of (X)
• (Y) is due to (X)
• Owing to (X), (Y)
• (Y) is because of (X)
• (Y) is the effect of (X)
• (Y) is the consequence of (X)
• Worsening pollution levels in cities are due to the increased use of cars.
• Because of the increased use of cars, pollution levels in cities are worsening.
• As a result of the increased use of cars, pollution levels in cities are worsening.
• The effect of the increased use of cars is a worsening of pollution levels in cities.
• The first effect of (X) is (Y)
• Another result of (X) is (Y)
• As a result, (Y)
• As a consequence, (Y)
• Consequently (Y)
• Therefore, (Y)
• (X) causes (Y)
• (X) has an effect on (Y)
• (X) affects (Y)
• (X) is one of the causes of (Y)
• (X) is the reason for (Y)
• Cars are used increasingly for urban transport. As a consequence , pollution levels in cities are worsening.
• Increased use of cars for urban transport adversely affects pollution levels in cities.
• Increased use of cars for urban transport is one of the causes of worsening pollution levels in cities.

Example essay

Below is a cause and effect essay. This essay uses the block structure . Click on the different areas (in the shaded boxes to the right) to highlight the different structural aspects in this essay, i.e. Causes, Effects, and structure words. This will highlight not simply the paragraphs, but also the thesis statement and summary , as these repeat the causes and effects contained in the main body.

Title: More and more women are now going out to work and some women are now the major salary earner in the family. What are the causes of this, and what effect is this having on families and society?

In the past, most women stayed at home to take care of domestic chores such as cooking or cleaning. Women's liberation and feminism have meant that this situation has been transformed and in contemporary society women are playing an almost equal role to men in terms of work. This has had significant consequences , both in terms of the family , for example by improving quality of life and increasing children's sense of independence , and also for society itself with greater gender equality . The main reasons behind the increase of women in the workplace are women's liberation and feminism. The women's liberation movement originated in the 1960s and was popularised by authors such as Simone de Beauvoir. As a consequence of this, new legislation emerged, granting women equal rights to men in many fields, in particular employment. Because of feminist ideas, men have taken up roles which were previously seen as being for women only, most importantly those related to child rearing. As a result of this, women have more time to pursue their own careers and interests. These have led to some significant effects, both to family life and to society as a whole. Although the earning capacity of a woman in her lifetime is generally much less than that of a man, she can nevertheless make a significant contribution to the family income. The most important consequence of this is an improved quality of life. By helping to maintain a steady income for the family, the pressure on the husband is considerably reduced, hence improving both the husband's and the wife's emotional wellbeing. Additionally, the purchasing power of the family will also be raised. This means that the family can afford more luxuries such as foreign travel and a family car. A further effect on the family is the promotion of independence in the children. Some might argue that having both parents working might be damaging to the children because of a lack of parental attention. However, such children have to learn to look after themselves at an earlier age, and their parents often rely on them to help with the housework. This therefore teaches them important life skills. As regards society, the most significant impact of women going to work is greater gender equality. There are an increasing number of women who are becoming politicians, lawyers, and even CEOs and company managers. This in turn has led to greater equality for women in all areas of life, not just employment. For example, women today have much stronger legal rights to protect themselves against domestic violence and sexual discrimination in the workplace. In conclusion, the increasing number of women at work has brought about some important changes to family life, including improved quality of life and increased independence for children, as well as affecting society itself. It is clear that the sexes are still a long way from being equal in all areas of life, however, and perhaps the challenge for the present century is to ensure that this takes place.

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Below is a checklist for cause and effect essays. Use it to check your own writing, or get a peer (another student) to help you.

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Compare & contrast essays examine the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences.

Cause & effect essays consider the reasons (or causes) for something, then discuss the results (or effects).

Discussion essays require you to examine both sides of a situation and to conclude by saying which side you favour.

Problem-solution essays are a sub-type of SPSE essays (Situation, Problem, Solution, Evaluation).

Transition signals are useful in achieving good cohesion and coherence in your writing.

Reporting verbs are used to link your in-text citations to the information cited.

Writing Academic Essays: Tips and Support: Cause and Effect Essay

• Informative Process Analysis
• Cause and Effect Essay
• Compare and Contrast Essay
• Argumentative Essay
• Newspapers, Databases & Articles
• MLA Help, Grammar and Writing

Cause & Effect Essay

• What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

One essay option for this assignment: Speculating About Causes

Cause and Effect

Write a paper discussing what you think may be the cause or causes of an important problem or trend (not an event or a fad).

• Explaining to an audience of your choice WHY it has occurred.
• Describe and identify your subject, demonstrate its existence with concrete evidence if necessary, and speculate about the possible causes of it.
• Your purpose is to convince your readers that your proposed causes are the major ones and that they are plausible. 
• Example: Red Tide in the Gulf Coast is caused by cruise ships dumping garbage and waste. This has led to ________. (now convince your audience

Write about  something that you are interested in and write out a table of causes and effects to see what you know about it. 

• List all the possible causes and select the most promising ones. 
• Do some research if you need more information. 
• Arrange your ideas about the causes you have selected in  a way that is most likely to convince your audience.

Keep in Mind

While you do not have to use scientific evidence, you do need to use facts to persuade your audience.

The basic parts of this paper are: (a) an explanation of the phenomenon/trend in the introduction for context; (b) a presentation of two to three proposed causes with evidence for each; (c) a consideration of readers' objections, questions, or reservations to such causes; and (d) a consideration of alternative causes if possible in the conclusion.

Begin your essay by demonstrating the existence of the phenomenon or trend with evidence. If you think UFOs are causing power outages in California, you will need evidence to convince your audience that you are being truthful. 

While arguing for your proposed causes, you do not have to prove that your explanations are scientifically true, but you must convince the readers that they are plausible or believable . To achieve this, you must present evidence in support of each proposed cause and organize your causal arguments in a logical order that will be easy for your readers to follow.  Remember our in class discussion of maps vs. tours of your houses in relation to Writer Based Prose.  You want to give your audience a map of the essay first in your introduction and thesis statement. 

You can present some obvious causes to establish common ground with your readers as King did in his essay.  However like King, in order to be successful in speculating about the causes, you have to be creative enough to come up with at least one not-so-obvious or “hidden” cause so as to show that you have the ability to make your readers look at the phenomenon or trend in a new way, and to challenge them to think more deeply and to experience explanations beyond the obvious and familiar ones.

Take your readers’ values and beliefs into account, deal with some possible alternative causes, and anticipate any possible objections to and questions about your proposed causes by either accommodating or refuting them as you see fit. In other words, include a counterargument!

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

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.

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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Cause and Effect Essay 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.

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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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.

Informative Essay — Purpose, Structure, and Examples

What is informative writing.

Informative writing educates the reader about a certain topic. An informative essay may explain new information, describe a process, or clarify a concept. The provided information is objective, meaning the writing focuses on presentation of fact and should not contain personal opinion or bias.

Informative writing includes description, process, cause and effect, comparison, and problems and possible solutions:

Describes a person, place, thing, or event using descriptive language that appeals to readers’ senses

Explains the process to do something or how something was created

Discusses the relationship between two things, determining how one ( cause ) leads to the other ( effect ); the effect needs to be based on fact and not an assumption

Identifies the similarities and differences between two things; does not indicate that one is better than the other

Details a problem and presents various possible solutions ; the writer does not suggest one solution is more effective than the others

Purpose of informative writing

The purpose of an informative essay depends upon the writer’s motivation, but may be to share new information, describe a process, clarify a concept, explain why or how, or detail a topic’s intricacies.

Informative essays may introduce readers to new information .

Summarizing a scientific/technological study

Outlining the various aspects of a religion

Providing information on a historical period

Describe a process or give step-by-step details of a procedure.

How to write an informational essay

How to construct an argument

How to apply for a job

Clarify a concept and offer details about complex ideas.

Explain why or how something works the way that it does.

Describe how the stock market impacts the economy

Illustrate why there are high and low tides

Detail how the heart functions

Offer information on the smaller aspects or intricacies of a larger topic.

Identify the importance of the individual bones in the body

Outlining the Dust Bowl in the context of the Great Depression

Explaining how bees impact the environment

How to write an informative essay

Regardless of the type of information, the informative essay structure typically consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Introduction

Background information

Explanation of evidence

Restated thesis

Review of main ideas

Closing statement

Informative essay introduction

When composing the introductory paragraph(s) of an informative paper, include a hook, introduce the topic, provide background information, and develop a good thesis statement.

If the hook or introduction creates interest in the first paragraph, it will draw the readers’ attention and make them more receptive to the essay writer's ideas. Some of the most common techniques to accomplish this include the following:

Emphasize the topic’s importance by explaining the current interest in the topic or by indicating that the subject is influential.

Use pertinent statistics to give the paper an air of authority.

A surprising statement can be shocking; sometimes it is disgusting; sometimes it is joyful; sometimes it is surprising because of who said it.

An interesting incident or anecdote can act as a teaser to lure the reader into the remainder of the essay. Be sure that the device is appropriate for the informative essay topic and focus on what is to follow.

Directly introduce the topic of the essay.

Provide the reader with the background information necessary to understand the topic. Don’t repeat this information in the body of the essay; it should help the reader understand what follows.

Identify the overall purpose of the essay with the thesis (purpose statement). Writers can also include their support directly in the thesis, which outlines the structure of the essay for the reader.

Informative essay body paragraphs

Each body paragraph should contain a topic sentence, evidence, explanation of evidence, and a transition sentence.

A good topic sentence should identify what information the reader should expect in the paragraph and how it connects to the main purpose identified in the thesis.

Provide evidence that details the main point of the paragraph. This includes paraphrasing, summarizing, and directly quoting facts, statistics, and statements.

Explain how the evidence connects to the main purpose of the essay.

Place transitions at the end of each body paragraph, except the last. There is no need to transition from the last support to the conclusion. A transition should accomplish three goals:

Tell the reader where you were (current support)

Tell the reader where you are going (next support)

Relate the paper’s purpose

Informative essay conclusion

Incorporate a rephrased thesis, summary, and closing statement into the conclusion of an informative essay.

Rephrase the purpose of the essay. Do not just repeat the purpose statement from the thesis.

Summarize the main idea found in each body paragraph by rephrasing each topic sentence.

End with a clincher or closing statement that helps readers answer the question “so what?” What should the reader take away from the information provided in the essay? Why should they care about the topic?

Informative essay example

The following example illustrates a good informative essay format:

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137 Intriguing Cause & Effect Essay Topics for Students

Teach critical thinking, logic, and the art of persuasion.

Cause-and-effect essays aren’t just a way to help students strengthen their writing skills. They’ll also learn critical thinking, logic, and the art of persuasion. In addition, they teach students to demonstrate how one thing directly influences another. Coming up with engaging cause-and-effect essay topics can be challenging, but we have you covered. This list of ideas includes a variety of topics that range from social and cultural movements to mental health and the environment.

Science and Environment Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• Describe the effect of urbanization on the environment.
• What is the impact of air pollution on health?
• What are the causes and consequences of plastics on marine life?
• What is the impact of rising sea temperatures on fish and marine life?
• Describe the impact of human behavior on global warming.

• What is the effect of social media on environmentalism?
• What causes volcanic eruptions?
• What causes trees to die?
• What are the effects of gravity?
• Why are plants green?
• Why do trees shed their leaves?
• What causes a species to become endangered?
• What are some of the causes of animals losing their habitats?
• Describe the effect of overpopulation on the environment.
• What are the effects of famine on human population?
• What are the causes and effects of Antarctica floods?
• What are the effects of pollution on the ocean?
• What effect do cars have on the environment?
• Why is it important to manage wildfires?
• What has been the impact of DNA on crime scene processing?

• What are the impacts of deforestation in Brazil?
• What are the effects of GMO foods on human health?
• What are the impacts of immunizations on human health?

Technology and Social Media Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• What are the effects of social media on adolescent development?
• How does technology affect productivity?
• What are the effects of video games on childhood development?
• How do cell phones affect human relationships?
• What are some reasons a teacher might ban cell phones from class?

• What effects do cell phones have on sleep?
• What effects did the invention of the Internet have on technology?
• What were the origins of cyberbullying?
• What are the effects of tablet use on small children?
• How has online dating changed relationships?
• What makes some people less likely to use social media?
• What are the effects of social media on privacy?
• How does the rise of TikTok affect Facebook and Instagram?
• In what ways could social media lead to extremism?
• What is the impact of social media on the increasing popularity of plastic surgery and other enhancements?

• What are some of the benefits of owning a smartphone and what are some of the drawbacks?
• What has been the impact of online shopping on brick-and-mortar stores?
• What has been the impact of smartphones on marriages and relationships?
• What are the causes and effects of texting while driving?
• What has the rise of “influencers” meant for Hollywood?
• In what ways have photo filters influenced young people’s self-esteem?

Culture and Social Issues Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• What are some of the reasons for substance abuse in young people?
• What are some of the effects of bullying?
• How does economic status affect the quality of health care?
• What are some of the causes of homelessness?
• Explain the effects of ignorance on discrimination.
• What are the impacts of death sentences on social justice?

• How does financial success affect societal privilege?
• What effects does growing up poor have on children?
• In what ways does religion influence society?
• What are the effects of immigration on a host country?
• What are the effects of ageism on job opportunities?
• What is the impact of LGBTQ+ representation in TV and movies?
• What are the effects of school shootings on politics?
• How do school uniforms affect students?
• What are the impacts of high student debt?
• What are the impacts of body shaming on people?
• What were the lasting impacts of the AIDS epidemic on society?

• What impact does banning abortion have in the United States?
• What has been the impact of marriage equality in the United States?
• What are the causes and effects of noise pollution?
• What are the causes and effects of inflation on the economy?
• What are the effects of TV shows on our behavior?

Sports Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• Examine the effects of exercise on mental health.
• What led to baseball being an iconic American sport?
• What drives people to participate in extreme sports?
• In what ways did globalization affect modern sports?
• What were the effects of doping on amateur and professional sports?
• Select a sport and write about the historical factors that led to the popularization of that sport.

• Describe the ways in which youth sports influence a child’s development.
• What were the driving forces behind the first Olympics?
• How can team sports help develop social skills?
• How have e-sports changed the sporting landscape?
• In what ways do race biases influence sports?

• What are the effects of regular workouts on immunity?
• How does participating in sports affect leadership skills?
• In what ways can sports lead to character development?
• What effect does famous athletes’ social commentary have on their fans?

History Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• What are the effects of the war in Syria on the United States?
• What have been the lasting effects of the Civil Rights Movement?
• What were the causes and effects of the attack on Pearl Harbor?
• What led up to the Berlin Wall being torn down and what effects did that have?

• What lasting impact did 9/11 have on modern American society?
• What were the causes of the Salem Witch Trials?
• What was the cultural impact of the Spanish-American War?
• How has globalization led to modern-day slavery?
• What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
• What were the impacts of the Great Depression on women’s employment?
• How did cartels come into existence? What effect have they had on the United States and Mexico?
• What were the causes and effects of the Women’s Liberation Movement?
• Give an example of colonialism in history and name the resulting impact to the affected society.

• What led to the rise of ISIS and what has the impact been on international security?
• What factors led to the Titanic’s sinking?
• What were the causes and effects of the Vietnam War?
• Choose an American president. What led him to become president and what were the effects of his presidency?

Mental Health Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• How can stress affect the immune system?
• How does social anxiety affect young people?
• How can high academic expectations lead to depression?
• What are the effects of divorce on young people?
• How does service in the armed forces lead to post-traumatic stress disorder?

• What are the effects of mindfulness on mental health?
• Describe the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted mental health.
• How does childhood trauma impact childhood development?
• What impact does witnessing violence have on mental health?
• What is behind increasingly high levels of anxiety in modern American society?

• What are the causes and effects of panic attacks?
• What are the causes and consequences of high stress in the workplace?
• What are some of the causes of insomnia and in what ways does it affect mental health?
• What is the impact of staying home for an extended period of time?

Current Events Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• Choose a local public education campaign. What are the effects of that campaign?
• What are the causes and effects of migration?
• What are the causes and effects of terrorist attacks?

• What are the effects of legalizing genetic engineering research?
• How do low voting rates impact elections and government?
• What is the effect of raising the minimum wage?
• What are the effects of globalization on society?
• How does gerrymandering affect election outcomes?
• What are the causes and effects of police brutality?
• What are the causes and effects of political polarization?

• What are the causes and effects of fake news?
• What are the effects of global war on citizens?
• What is the effect of international aid on poverty or health?
• Why do some countries have nuclear weapons, and what does this mean for other countries?

Education Cause & Effect Essay Topics

• What are the effects of teacher quality on student success?
• What are the causes and effects of student loan debt?
• What are the causes and effects of low graduation rates?

• What are the effects of assigning homework?
• What are the causes and effects of school funding disparities?
• What are the causes and effects of the digital divide in education?
• What is the effect of AI on education?
• What are the causes and effects of student burnout?
• Should students be required to study a foreign language in school, and what are the effects of learning a foreign language?

• What effect has the COVID pandemic had on education?
• What are the effects of same-sex classrooms or schools?

What are your best cause-and-effect essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out our list of interesting persuasive essay topics for kids and teens..

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Guide to Different Kinds of Essays

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An essay is a paper that discusses, describes or analyzes one topic. It can discuss a subject directly or indirectly, seriously or humorously. It can describe personal opinions, or just report information. An essay can be written from any perspective, but essays are most commonly written in the first person ( I ), or third person (subjects that can be substituted with the he, she, it, or they pronouns).

There are many different kinds of essays. The following are a some of the most common ones:

Descriptive Cause/Effect Argumentative Definition Narrative Critical Compare/Contrast Process

Descriptive:

Examples: A descriptive essay could describe . . .

The descriptive essay provides details about how something looks, feels, tastes, smells, makes one feel, or sounds. It can also describe what something is, or how something happened. These essays generally use a lot of sensory details. The essay could be a list-like description that provides point by point details. Or, it could function as a story, keeping the reader interested in the plot and theme of the event described.

Definition:

Examples: A definition essay may try and define . . .

A definition essay attempts to define a specific term. It could try to pin down the meaning of a specific word, or define an abstract concept. The analysis goes deeper than a simple dictionary definition; it should attempt to explain why the term is defined as such. It could define the term directly, giving no information other than the explanation of the term. Or, it could imply the definition of the term, telling a story that requires the reader to infer the meaning.

Compare/Contrast:

Examples:A compare/contrast essay may discuss . . .

The compare/contrast essay discusses the similarities and differences between two things, people, concepts, places, etc. The essay could be an unbiased discussion, or an attempt to convince the reader of the benefits of one thing, person, or concept. It could also be written simply to entertain the reader, or to arrive at an insight into human nature. The essay could discuss both similarities and differences, or it could just focus on one or the other. A comparison essay usually discusses the similarities between two things, while the contrast essay discusses the differences.

Cause/Effect:

Examples:A cause/effect essay may explain . . .

The cause/effect essay explains why or how some event happened, and what resulted from the event.

This essay is a study of the relationship between two or more events or experiences. The essay could discuss both causes and effects, or it could simply address one or the other. A cause essay usually discusses the reasons why something happened. An effect essay discusses what happens after a specific event or circumstance.

The example below shows a cause essay, one that would explain how and why an event happened.

If this cause essay were about a volcanic eruption, it might go something like this: “Pressure and heat built up beneath the earth’s surface; the effect of this was an enormous volcanic eruption.”

The next example shows an effect essay, one that would explain all the effects that happened after a specific event, like a volcanic eruption.

If this effect essay were about a volcanic eruption again, it might go something like this:

“The eruption caused many terrible things to happen; it destroyed homes, forests, and polluted the atmosphere.”

Examples:A narrative essay could tell of . . .

The narrative essay tells a story. It can also be called a “short story.” Generally, the narrative essay is conversational in style and tells of a personal experience. It is most commonly written in the first person (uses I ). This essay could tell of a single, life-shaping event, or simply a mundane daily experience.

Examples: A process essay may explain . . .

A process essay describes how something is done. It generally explains actions that should be performed in a series. It can explain in detail how to accomplish a specific task, or it can show how an individual came to a certain personal awareness. The essay could be in the form of step-by-step instructions, or in story form, with the instructions/explanations subtly given along the way.

Argumentative:

Examples: An argumentative essay may persuade a reader that . . .

An argumentative essay is one that attempts to persuade the reader to the writer’s point of view. The writer can either be serious or funny, but always tries to convince the reader of the validity of his or her opinion. The essay may argue openly, or it may attempt to subtly persuade the reader by using irony or sarcasm.

Examples: A critical essay may analyze . . .

A critical essay analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, and methods of someone else’s work. Generally, these essays begin with a brief overview of the main points of the text, movie, or piece of art, followed by an analysis of the work’s meaning. It should then discuss how well the author/creator accomplishes his/her goals and makes his/her points. A critical essay can be written about another essay, story, book, poem, movie, or work of art.

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