Five Whys Analysis

Perform iterative root cause analysis by asking "why" repeatedly until you reach the underlying cause.

Instructions

Start with the stated problem and ask "why" it occurred. For each answer, ask "why" again. Continue until you reach a root cause that:

• Is actionable (you can do something about it)
• Is fundamental (asking "why" further leads to abstract/unhelpful answers)
• Explains the chain of causation

Typically this takes 5 iterations, but may be fewer or more.

Output Format

Problem Statement Restate the problem clearly and specifically.

Why Chain

Root Cause The fundamental issue identified. Explain why this is the root (not just another symptom).

Branches (if applicable) If multiple valid answers exist at any level, show the branching analysis.

Corrective Actions

• Immediate: What to do now to address the symptom
• Systemic: What to change to prevent recurrence

Verification How will you confirm the root cause is correct? (Test the hypothesis)

Guidelines

• Each answer should be factual and verifiable
• Avoid blame ("John didn't do X")—focus on systems and processes
• If you're guessing, note it as a hypothesis to verify
• Watch for circular logic
• It's okay to branch if there are multiple valid causes
• Stop when further "why" questions become philosophical or unhelpful

Examples

Software Bug

Problem: Users are seeing 500 errors on the checkout page

Root Cause: Missing process for database review when adding new query patterns.

Corrective Actions:

• Immediate: Add index on customer_id
• Systemic: Add database review checklist to PR template

Customer Churn

Problem: Enterprise customer canceled after 6 months

Root Cause: Success team capacity forces them to end onboarding prematurely.

Corrective Actions:

• Immediate: Reach out to at-risk accounts with training
• Systemic: Hire success capacity; redefine onboarding to include adoption milestone

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