Lesson 1.1: Problem Tree Analysis

Templates & Tools

Ready-to-use templates, MCP prompts, and stakeholder question libraries to accelerate your Problem Tree development.

Downloadable Templates

All templates are free to use for your nonprofit or social enterprise projects.

Problem Tree Template

Excel
150 KB Analysis

Structured spreadsheet with sections for causes, core problem, and effects. Includes (E/A) tagging and source citation columns.

Beginner
Download

MCP Prompt Library

Word
180 KB Analysis

Complete MCP template plus 5 sector-specific variations (health, education, environment, livelihoods, youth).

Intermediate
Download

Stakeholder Question Bank

PDF
220 KB Communication

50+ open-ended validation questions organized by theme (causes, effects, solutions, community assets).

Beginner
Download

Visual Tree Diagram

PPT
850 KB Communication

Editable tree diagrams for presentations and proposals. Includes icons and color schemes.

Beginner
Download

📚 Usage Guides

How to Use the Generic Problem Tree Template

  1. 1

    Copy the template structure

    Use the markdown template as a starting point for documenting your Problem Tree findings.

  2. 2

    Fill in your specific findings

    Replace placeholder text with causes, core problem, and effects from your research.

  3. 3

    Tag with (E/A)

    Mark each element as Evidence (E) or Assumption (A) for transparency.

  4. 4

    Prepare for stakeholder validation

    Convert assumptions into open-ended questions using the Question Bank.

Pro Tips

  • Keep the core problem statement clear and focused without embedding causes or solutions
  • Use the (E/A) tagging system consistently to maintain transparency
  • Prepare validation questions from your assumptions before stakeholder engagement

Using the MCP Prompt Library Effectively

  1. 1

    Customize system context

    Set expectations for neutral, evidence-focused research assistance.

  2. 2

    Provide knowledge context

    Include your draft problem, geographic scope, and existing insights.

  3. 3

    Specify task objectives

    Request preliminary Problem Tree, indicators, sources, and validation questions.

  4. 4

    Review and validate

    Treat MCP output as desk review requiring community validation.

Pro Tips

  • AI tools accelerate desk review but must be validated with stakeholders
  • Tag all MCP findings as (A) assumptions until validated
  • Use sector-specific adaptations for more focused research

🛠️ Additional Tools & Resources

Generic Problem Tree Code Template

Reference

Copy-paste markdown structure for documenting your Problem Tree with proper formatting and (E/A) tagging system.

Key Features:

  • Markdown format for easy documentation
  • Three-tier structure: Effects, Core Problem, Root Causes
  • (E/A) tagging system built in
  • Source citation placeholders

MCP Prompt Quick Reference Code Template

Reference

Condensed MCP prompt structure for quick access during desk review sessions.

Key Features:

  • System context configuration
  • Knowledge context section
  • Task context objectives
  • Prompt structure template
Learn More

Need More Support?

Visit the Examples page to see complete Problem Trees from real projects, or check the Quality Checklist to validate your work before moving to stakeholder engagement.

View Examples → Quality Checklist →