While the example is one from a student who knows what she wants to study, this process does

not require that you have a specific degree or career in mind. In fact, if you are undecided, you
can explore the “why” of your indecision. Is it because you have many choices, or are you unsure
what you really want out of university/your studies?

The Five Whys in Action

1. Why are you in university?

I am in university to earn a degree in business administration.

2. Why do you want to earn a degree in business administration?

I want to be able to build a business.

3. Why do you want to build a business?

I believe that building a business will enrich my life and those of others.

4. Why do you feel it is important to have a business that will enrich your life and those of
others?

I feel that we must provide for ourselves as well as others and having a business will
facilitate this.

5. Why do you feel that we must provide for ourselves as well as others and that having a
business will facilitate this?

I feel that it is my purpose and responsibility to help others as well as provide for my
family and myself.

Do you see how this student went beyond a standard answer about what they wanted to study
and connected it to her study plans and an overall purpose to help others in a specific way?

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