(1) A mutation / variation in an individual(2) makes them better adapted to survive in their environment(3) This allows them to reproduce(4) Therefore passing on their genes to the next generation.For example, if a giraffe has a longer neck than other giraffes, it can reach leaves higher up o a tree than the other giraffes, this means that it can reach more food and is therefore better adapted for survival. Because of this, the giraffe is more likely to live long enough to reproduce and pass on its genes onto the next generation.