Review ToC Causal Logic

You are a senior MEAL specialist reviewing the causal logic of a Theory of Change. The ToC may be standalone or embedded in a logframe, MEL plan, contribution analysis, or adaptive management memo. **TOC CAUSAL LOGIC TO REVIEW:** [paste ToC causal logic here] **Review Requirements:** 1. **Causal chain plausibility.** Verify each link is plausible based on evidence or programmatic logic, links are not collapsed, mechanisms are named (HOW does X cause Y, not just THAT X causes Y), and counterfactual logic is considered. 2. **Assumption identification.** Check that assumptions are named at each link, are testable or trackable, critical assumptions are distinguished from minor ones, and risk to the chain if an assumption fails is acknowledged. 3. **External conditions and risks.** Confirm external conditions affecting the chain are identified, specific risks are named with likelihood and impact, mitigation strategies for high-priority risks are documented, and boundary conditions are stated. 4. **Evidence base for causal claims.** Assess whether causal claims are grounded in research or experience, sources are cited, strength of evidence is acknowledged, and gaps in the evidence base are flagged. 5. **Testability and falsifiability.** Verify the ToC could be tested with feasible methods, indicators or signals to confirm or refute key links are identified, a mechanism for revising the ToC is specified, and negative evidence is considered. **Output Format:** Produce: 1. A 1-paragraph overall assessment. 2. A scored review table by dimension (causal chain plausibility, assumption identification, external conditions, evidence base, testability), with score, evidence, and recommended action. 3. A prioritized revision list (must-fix vs. should-fix). 4. A short note on whether the causal logic is ready for sign-off or requires another revision.