Cause/Effect Essay

Definition

            A cause and effect essay focuses on why things happen and what their results or consequences are.  Causes are the reasons why something happened.  Effects are the direct results or consequences of an event.  The study of causes and effects are central to many disciplines:  science, history, sociology, psychology, etc.     

Choosing a Subject

            Consider recent experiences, conversations, and headlines for possible ideas.  It can focus on current events, political or social events, or developments in medicine or technology.  It can also focus on every day events.  For example, what happens when you procrastinate?  Or, what are the effects of eating too much junk food?

Thesis Development

            A thesis statement in a cause and effect essay usually focuses on causes or effects but not on both.  The thesis statement should offer your opinion or stand about a cause or an effect.  Remember, a good thesis statement should be short and to the point, contain one clear main idea, and take a stand or express your opinion.          

Organization

            Cause/effect essays generally focus on the causes of the effects of an event, problem, or phenomenon.  Some essays examine both causes and effects.  The thesis announces whether the cause or the effects will be examined, and the supporting sentences or paragraphs develop those causes or effects.        

Tips on Writing

– Before you start writing, determine whether you will be covering the cause, effects, or both.

– List all of the causes and effects you can think of for the situation.

– Examine each cause or effect to determine whether it is a direct cause or effect of your event.  Keep in mind the difference between direct and indirect causes and effects.

– When examining causes and effects, decide the value and importance of each item.

– Clearly establish the relationships between the cause and the effect.

– Avoid mistaking coincidence for cause and effect.

– Avoid oversimplification.  

– Don’t confuse affect for effect

– Affect is a verb meaning “to influence.”

– Effect is usually used as a noun meaning “result.”

– When used as a verb, effect means “to make or to cause to happen.”

Essay Guidelines

– Due dates:  Pre-Write due February 27; Rough Draft due March 5; Final Draft due March 19

– Essay length:  700 – 900 words (between 3 and 6 pages)

– Rough drafts can be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced.

– Final draft format:

– Typed (if this is not possible, please let me know)

– 1 inch margins

– Name and date on the upper right hand corner

– Number the pages on the lower right hand corner

– Title centered above the text of the essay