The purpose of this module is to examine how some of the key concepts, frameworks and methods of social analysis have been applied in development practice. The focus is on the application of social analysis to development interventions. There has been a gradual shift in development practice away from analysis of absolute poverty towards and analysis of inequality within and between nations. This shift has also resulted in a shift in policy focus. New frameworks have evolved, for example, the livelihoods framework emanating from the Department for International Development, and new tools for participatory and gender analysis of inequality. These have had an impact in different social sectors (health, education, infrastructure, etc). The new focus also has policy implications for Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers, These are analysed in detail in the module.