Writing Tip: Cause and Effect Essays

When writing cause and effect essays, there are several things to keep in mind.  First of all, you need to know whether you have the "cause," or the "effect."  For example, is your assignment to examine the causes of global warming, (effect) or the effects global warming will have on the world (cause)?  That's right, sometimes a single concept can be both a cause and effect, depending on how you look at it.  Your job is to know what the assignment requires of you, and fulfill the requirements.  Remember:  When in doubt, ask your instructor.

Another thing to keep in mind is cause and effect essays address why something occurred.  You're not interested in how.  You're not meant to evaluate the end results (the effects).  You're explaining why.  You're either beginning with the effect, (global warming) and writing about the causes, or you're beginning with the cause, (global warming) and writing about the effect(s).  Either way, your primary concern is why.  

The next thing is very important:  Be careful about causality.  Your textbook probably mentions the post hoc fallacy.  I know the one I'm referring to does.  Basically, you don't want to make the mistake of assuming that because one event follows another event, the first event caused the second event.  Just because the moon comes out after the sun goes down, doesn't mean the sun setting causes the moon to rise (and in fact, the two can be out at the same time).

Also, don't oversimplify your causes and/or effects.  You want to be realistic and accurate in your essay.

Finally, like in any essay, you want to follow an organized pattern.  I would peruse your textbook for examples if you need further help with this.  In general, you know you want to begin with an introduction that briefly explains the cause(s) and effect(s) you'll be addressing.  You'll write a thesis in that paragraph.

After that, you'll want to devote one (or more) body paragraph(s) to each cause or effect, depending on which pattern you're following.

Be sure to transition between each new idea.  Cite any sources you use.

Finally, you're ready to write your conclusion.  Restate your thesis and major points.  And tie it up with something you've learned from writing the paper that you want your audience to remember the clearest.

And that's a cause and effect paper in a nutshell.  Remember those key items--and seek help if you need it.