URL: https://bwsmithconsulting.com/glossary/logic-model/
Updated: 2026-11-09

Glossary

# Logic model

A logic model is a one page summary of how a program is expected to work, linking resources and activities to the outputs and outcomes it aims to achieve.

By [Alyssa Gilbert](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/about/#alyssa-gilbert), MPH Reviewed by [Bonnie W. Smith](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/about/#bonnie-smith), MPH, CPH, CPP Updated November 9, 2026

In short

A logic model is a one page summary of how a program is supposed to work. It links the resources you have and the activities you run to the outputs they produce and the outcomes you expect, so everyone can see the plan and an evaluator can measure it.

Also known as: Program logic model Logic framework

A logic model is a planning and evaluation tool. It is usually a table or diagram that reads from left to right: what goes in, what you do, what you produce and what changes as a result.

## Why it matters

A logic model makes the thinking behind a program visible. Staff can see how their work fits the bigger goal, funders can see that the plan holds together, and evaluators know exactly what to measure.

## Example

A youth vaping prevention program might list coalition members and grant funds as inputs, classroom sessions and a parent campaign as activities, the number of students reached as an output, a rise in how risky students think vaping is as a short term outcome, and fewer students vaping as the long term outcome.

## Related terms

Theory of change, outputs, outcomes and indicators.

For a step by step walkthrough, see our guide on [how to build a logic model for a grant](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/guides/how-to-build-a-logic-model/).

## Frequently asked questions

**What are the parts of a logic model?**

Usually inputs, activities, outputs, short term outcomes and long term outcomes. Some versions add assumptions and outside factors.

**Why do funders ask for one?**

It shows the funder that your activities connect to the results you promise, and it becomes the backbone of your evaluation plan.

Planning an evaluation, assessment or survey?

Tell us about your program, your community and your deadlines. The first conversation is how we figure out what you actually need.

[Book a call](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/contact/#form)

## Related

- [Guide How to build a logic model for a grant A step by step guide to building a logic model for a grant application or evaluation plan, with an example from a youth prevention program and common mistakes. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/guides/how-to-build-a-logic-model/)
- [Free template Free logic model template A free, printable one page logic model template for grant applications and evaluation plans, with a worked example row and instructions for filling it in. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/templates/logic-model-template/)
- [Grant program Drug Free Communities grant evaluation What the Drug Free Communities Support Program funds, the core measures and reporting it requires, and how an evaluator helps coalitions plan, collect and report. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/grants/drug-free-communities/)
- [Who we serve Evaluation and youth surveys for prevention coalitions Youth surveys, core measures, evaluation plans and grant support for prevention coalitions, including Drug Free Communities and SPF grantees. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/who-we-serve/prevention-coalitions/)
- [Compare Internal vs external evaluator The pros and cons of using staff to evaluate your program versus hiring an outside evaluator, with questions to help you decide what fits your grant and budget. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/compare/internal-vs-external-evaluator/)
- [Service Program evaluation Outside program evaluation for prevention, treatment, recovery and community health programs, from evaluation plans and data collection to reports funders trust. Read](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/services/program-evaluation/)

Planning an evaluation, assessment or survey?

Tell us about your program, your community and your deadlines. The first conversation is how we figure out what you actually need.

[Book a call](https://bwsmithconsulting.com/contact/#form)Call 860.995.5853