An Anticipatory Action approach seeks to identify multiple windows of opportunity for action throughout the duration of predictable shocks, such as drought. It links early warning information with flexible financing to trigger actions that reduce the impact on the most vulnerable. A robust, context-specific trigger mechanism is at the heart of this approach, as it produces early warning triggers for the activation of anticipatory actions to protect diverse livelihood groups at the right time and with as little uncertainty as possible. Drawing on the experience of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and its partners in implementing Anticipatory Action, this guidance document outlines five steps for establishing an Anticipatory Action trigger mechanism for drought.