Step 6: Create your Theory of Change

A Theory of Change describes how and why you expect change to happen. It links activities to outcomes, but also captures assumptions and conditions. Done participatorily, it makes explicit the community’s logic of change.

1. Start with your long-term vision — e.g. healthier children.
2. Ask what outcomes lead there — improved nutrition, cleaner water.
3. Identify outputs and activities.
4. Make assumptions visible — e.g. water system remains functional.

Want to learn more? Watch this video that will take you through the concept step by step.

Eager to get started? Use these templates to apply the steps for your own organisation or project:

Word template ToC
PDF Theory of Change template