A Comprehensive Guide to 5 Why Analysis

For every effect there is a cause. The “5 Whys” is a technique originally used by the Toyota Motor Corporation to explore cause-and-effect relationships. It is an iterative interrogative technique used to explore the cause-and-effect relationships underlying a particular problem.

The primary goal of the technique is to determine the root cause of a defect or problem by repeating the question “Why?”. Each answer forms the basis of the next question. The “five” in the name derives from an anecdotal observation on the number of iterations needed to resolve the problem.

• “The basis of Toyota’s scientific approach is to ask why five times whenever we find a problem“
• ” By repeating why five times, the nature of the problem as well as its solution becomes clear.“ by Taiichi Ohno

5 Whys Example — The Vehicle will not Start

1. Why? — The battery is dead
2. Why? — The alternator is not functioning
3. Why? — The alternator Belt has broken
4. Why? — The alternator belt was well beyond its useful service life and not replaced
5. Why? — The vehicle was not maintained according to the recommented service schedule

Present 5 Whys using Infographic Template

I got caught speeding.

1. Why did I get caught speeding?

• Because I was late for work.

2. Why was I late for work?

• Because I woke up late.

3. Why did I wake up late?

• Because my alarm clock didn’t work.

4. Why didn’t my alarm clock work?

• Because the batteries were dead.

5. Why were the batteries dead?

• Forget to replace it.

Other 5 Whys Online Templates

Edit the Above 5 Whys Template Online

Edit the Above 5 Whys Template Online

Edit the Above 5 Whys Template Online

Creating 5 Whys Analysis Using Online Spreadsheet

Related Cause and Effect Analysis Articles

• Cause and Effect Analysis: Using Fishbone Diagram
• How to use 5 Whys Tree Diagram for Root Cause Analysis?
• Root Cause Analysis Using Why-Why Diagram