Final answer:
The explanation of cause and effect involves outlining why events happen and the results that follow, often beginning with either the cause or the effect and then relating the two. This form of analysis adds depth to academic writing, providing clarity on the relationships between different factors and enhancing the argument's credibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
To explain is to relate cause and effect, thereby making the relationships between things evident. This involves detailing why certain events occur and what consequences follow from these events. In academic writing, such as a report on environmental policy, these relationships provide a critical understanding of the interplay between actions and their impacts.
Explaining cause and effect often begins with either stating the cause(s) and then describing the resultant effect(s), or by presenting the effect(s) first, followed by an analysis of the cause(s). For instance, in the study of an environmental disaster like an oil spill, the cause would be the oil spill itself, with effects including harm to wildlife, damage to waterways, and increased environmental cleanup costs.
When structuring your paragraphs, remember to articulate why your analysis matters and how it supports your thesis statement. This adds strength and credibility to your ideas, encouraging readers to think critically about the topic. Also, keeping a clear timeline of events helps to maintain the correct order of cause and effect, ensuring a logical and accurate analysis.