Five Whys?

(5Ys)

Description
Five Whys? is a simple process of asking the question Why? repeatedly in order
to detect the root cause or meaning of a particular problem or situation. It can be
used any time a human factor is present, when people do not truly understand a
situation or when a deeper understanding is necessary. The 5Ys causes people
to use higher order thinking skills, encourages the finding of the true meaning of
a situation and causes people to challenge the current problem.
Procedure
1. Identify a problem, situation or concept to be examined.
2. Ask Why? this particular condition exists.
3. Each time the question Why? is answered, ask Why? once again.
4. Continue to ask Why? until everyone is satisfied they have arrived at the root
cause of the issue.
Link to Outcomes
Students recognise when and what information is needed, locate and obtain it
from a range of sources and evaluate, share and use it with others.
Dynamic Strategies
Motivation/Negotiation
Thinking and Reasoning Skills
Decision making, planning, drawing conclusions, making judgments

Five Whys? (5Ys)

Problem