Why-What-How-Now is a simple framework you can use to structure reports, presentations, speeches, design workshops and courses, and more.

What’s the best way to explain anything to anyone?

This question led me to many books, articles, courses and mentors.

While there are several good approaches, a simple framework that has become my favourite is Why-What-How-Now.

Originally created by Bernice McCarthy as a learning design framework, I learnt it from Taki More who teaches how to use it for packaging intellectual property.

The framework consists of 4 questions - each addressing a different aspect of understanding something.

❶ Why is about why something matters - costs and benefits of doing or not doing it
❷ What is about key ideas and principles
❸ How refers to the process or detailed steps
❹ Now is about applying what you learn to solve a problem or achieve a goal.

I use the framework to design workshops and courses. It helps me decide what to include, and how to organise it

I also use this framework for content creation - generating multiple ideas from one topic. I recently used it to come up with 100 ideas I wish to write about.

I also help clients use it to structure reports, presentations, and speeches. It’s a good framework for scoping and structuring such communication.

If you are struggling with explaining something so people really get it, try Why - What - How - Now.

It works!