Defining a problem is often the most important step in the problem$-$solving process. It's also the ideal time to identify a problem's root cause so that you can address it directly. One technique for getting at the root cause is the "five whys analysis."

In this method, you start with a problem and repeatedly ask, "Why," usually five times, answering your own question each time until you get to the problem's root cause.

As you watch the National Geographic Video below, you will be guided through a "five whys analysis" to help identify a root cause.