In an Ishikawa Diagram, which statement is true?

• A. The bones represent the causes
• B. The head represents the causes
• C. The bones represent the effects
• D. It is used to plot run charts

Answer: (B)

An Ishikawa diagram maps potential causes of a problem, organizing thinking visually. The problem or effect is placed at the head of the fish, while the bones off the spine are the major categories of causes, with smaller branches detailing specific factors within each category. So the bones represent the causes. The head represents the effect, not the causes. This diagram is a brainstorming tool to uncover potential contributors to a problem, not a plot for run charts, which display data over time to look for trends.