Cause and effect questions ask you to identify whether one event leads to another. A cause is an event or condition that produces a result; an effect is the outcome that happens because of that cause.

Core idea

• Cause: the reason, condition, or action that produces a result.
• Effect: the result or consequence of a cause.
• Common cause: one event may independently produce two different effects.
• Chain reaction: one effect may later become the cause of another event.

How to identify a cause

A likely cause usually comes before the effect and provides a direct, sensible explanation for it. Look for a clear link between the two events rather than simply assuming that the earlier event caused the later one.

How to identify an effect

Ask what naturally follows from the event described. An effect should be a consequence, not merely another event happening around the same time. It must fit the scale and direction of the stated cause.

Important causal patterns

• Direct cause: heavy rain causes waterlogging on poorly drained roads.
• Multiple causes: an outcome may result from several contributing factors.
• One cause, many effects: a power outage can affect traffic signals and businesses.
• Cause chain: a strike may reduce supply, which may increase prices.
• Reverse relationship: do not mistake an effect for its cause.

Common traps

• Correlation is not causation: two events occurring together may have no direct link.
• After does not mean because of: timing alone does not establish cause.
• Hidden cause: both events may result from a third factor.
• Overstatement: a cause may contribute to an effect without being its only cause.
• Outside knowledge: rely on the information and logical connection in the question.

A quick solving method

1. Read both events carefully and note their order.
2. Ask whether the first event can reasonably produce the second.
3. Check whether the relationship is direct, indirect, or unsupported.
4. Consider whether a common cause could explain both events.
5. Select the option that explains the relationship without exaggeration.

Quick revision summary

• A cause explains why an effect occurs.
• An effect follows from a cause.
• Chronology is useful but does not prove causation on its own.
• Check for common causes, indirect links, and reversed relationships.