---
title: "cause-and-consequence analysis — Definition & Meaning"
description: "Cause-and-consequence analysis identifies why events occur and their effects, essential for civil services candidates and policy researchers."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/cause-and-consequence-analysis"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Cause-and-consequence analysis is a historical-method skill that identifies why an event occurred and traces its short- and long-term effects across political, economic, and social domains.
- What is the difference between a cause and a consequence in historical analysis?
- What is the post hoc ergo propter hoc fallacy in this context?
- How should a candidate structure a 'causes and consequences' essay?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

Cause-and-consequence analysis is a historical-method skill that identifies why an event occurred and traces its short- and long-term effects across political, economic, and social domains.

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In the 2017 UPSC History optional, candidates analysing the First World War were expected to rank militarism and the alliance system as root causes above the Sarajevo assassination of 28 June 1914, the proximate trigger.

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