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How to Plan & Write IELTS Problem Solution Essays

IELTS problem solution essays are the most challenging essay type for many people. The way they are worded can vary hugely which can make it difficult to understand how you should answer the question.

Generally, you’ll be asked to write about both the problem, or cause, and the solution to a specific issue. Sometimes, however, you will only be required to write about possible solutions.

The 3 essay types:

Problem and solution
Cause and solution
Just the solution

Hence, it’s essential that you analyse the question carefully, which I’ll show you how to do in this lesson. I’m also going to demonstrate step-by-step how to plan and write IELTS problem solution essays.

Here’s what we’ll be covering:

Identifying IELTS problem solution essays
6 Common mistakes
Essay structure
How to plan
How to write an introduction
How to write main body paragraphs
How to write a conclusion

Want to watch and listen to this lesson?

Click on this video.

Click the links to see lessons on each of these Task 2 essay writing topics.

Once you understand the process, practice on past questions. Take your time at first and gradually speed up until you can plan and write an essay of at least 250 words in the 40 minutes allowed in the exam.

The Question

Here are two typical IELTS problem solution essay questions. They consist of a statement followed by the question or instruction.

1. One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion.

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?

2. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the number of endangered species has increased significantly and we have witnessed more mass extinctions in this period than in any other period of time.

State some reasons for this and provide possible solutions.

These are some examples of different ways in which questions can be phrased. The first half of the questions relate to the problem or cause, the second half to the solution.

What issues does this cause and how can they be addressed?

What are some resulting social problems and how can we deal with them?

What problems arise from this and how can they be tackled?

Why is this? How might it be remedied?

What are the reasons for this, and how can the situation be improved?

Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

And here are a few questions where you only have to write about the solution.

How can this situation be improved?

What solutions can you suggest to deal with this problem?

How can this problem be solved?

What measures could be taken to prevent this?

It’s important that you are able to recognise the common synonyms, words and phrases used in problem solution questions. Here are the key words and their synonyms used in the questions above.

Problem – issues, resulting, situation
Cause – reasons, why
Solution – deal with, addressed, tackled, remedied, improved, measures taken, solved, prevent

Before we move on to some common mistakes, I want to quickly explain the difference between a problem and a cause. Read the following examples.

Problem – I've missed the last bus home after visiting my friend for the evening.

Cause – I misread the timetable and thought the bus left at 22.45 when it actually left at 22.35.

The ‘cause’ is the reason for the ‘problem’. We’ll be looking at question analysis in more detail in a minute.

6 Common Mistakes

These six errors are common in IELTS problem solution essays.

Confusing problem and causes questions.
Having too many ideas.
Not developing your ideas.
Not developing both sides of the argument equally.
Not linking the problems and solutions.
Not being specific enough.

It is common for an essay to consist of a list of problems and solutions without any of them being expanded on or linked to each other. Sometimes, a student will focus on just the problem or only the solution which leads to an unbalanced essay. Both these issues will result in a low score for task achievement.

You must choose just one or two problems and pick solutions directly linked to them. Explain them and give examples.

Another serious error is to write generally about the topic. You need to be very specific with your ideas. Analysing the question properly is essential to avoiding this mistake. I’ll show you how to do this.

Essay Structure

Now let’s look at a simple structure you can use to write IELTS problem solution essays. It’s not the only possible structure but it’s the one I recommend because it’s easy to learn and will enable you to quickly plan and write a high-level essay.

1) Introduction

Paraphrase the question
State 1 key problem/cause and related solution

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Problem or Cause

Topic sentence – state the problem or cause
Explanation – give detail explaining the problem or cause
Example – give an example

3) Main body paragraph 2 – Solution

Topic sentence – state the solution
Explanation – give detail explaining the solution

4) Conclusion

Summarise the key points

This structure will give us a well-balanced essay with 4 paragraphs.

One Problem/Cause & Solution or Two?

Most questions will state problems, causes and solutions in the plural, that is, more than one. However, it is acceptable to write about just one.

This will give you an essay of just over the minimum 250 words. To write about two problems/causes and solutions will require you to write between 350 and 400 words which are a lot to plan and write in the 40 minutes allowed.

It is better to fully develop one problem/cause and solution than ending up with one idea missing an explanation or an example because you run out of time.

The step-by-step essay structure I’m going to show you includes one problem and solution but you can write about two if you feel able to or more comfortable doing so.

How To Plan IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Here’s the question we’re going to be answering in our model essay followed by the 3 steps of the planning process.

One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion.

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you sugge st?

Analyse the question
Generate ideas
Identify vocabulary

# 1 Analyse the question

This is an essential step in the planning process and will ensure that you answer the question fully. It’s quick and easy to do. You just need to identify 3 different types of words:

1. Topic words

2. Other keywords

3. Instruction words

Topics words are the ones that identify the general subject of the question and will be found in the statement part of the question.

One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion .

So, this question is about ‘ traffic congestion’ .

Many people will do this first step of the process and then write about the topic in general. This is a serious mistake and leads to low marks for task achievement.

What we need to do now that we know the general topic, is to understand exactly what aspect of traffic congestion we're being asked to write about.

The other keywords in the question tell you the specific topic you must write about.

By highlighting these words, it’s easy to see that you are being asked to write about the problem of traffic congestion in large cities. Your essay must only include ideas relevant to these ideas.

The instruction words are the question itself. These tell you the type of IELTS problem solution essay you must write. This is a ‘causes and solutions’ question.

# 2 Generate ideas

The next task is to generate some ideas to write about.

There are several different ways to think up ideas. I cover them fully on the IELTS Essay Planning page.

We’re going to use the ‘friends technique’. This is the method I prefer as it allows you to take a step back from the stress of the exam situation and think more calmly.

Here’s how it works. Imagine that you are chatting with a friend over a cup of coffee and they ask you this question. What are the first thoughts to come into your head? Plan your essay around these ideas.

Doing this will help you to come up with simple answers in everyday language rather than straining your brain to think of amazing ideas using high-level language, which isn’t necessary.

You might want to try this yourself before reading on for my ideas.

Here are my ideas:

Too many cars on the roads – increasing numbers of people own cars, more convenient than buses & trains
Inadequate public transport – crowded, old & dirty
Poor road layout
Rush hour traffic – most people travel to & from work at the same times each day
Car sharing, park-and-ride scheme, congestion charge
Improve public transport – more frequent and better quality
Improve infrastructure – bus lanes, cycle lanes will make it safer for people to cycle
Flexible working hours

For each cause you think of, immediately write down a possible solution. This you will ensure that the problems and solutions you think of are linked.

You don’t need to spend long on this as you only need one or two ideas.

I’ve got more far more ideas here than I need as I spent more time thinking about it that I would in the real exam. I’m going to pick just one cause to develop in the essay and one or two solutions.

My advice on making your selection is to choose ideas you can quickly think of an example to illustrate.

Here are my choices:

Cause – Too many cars on the roads. Why? – increasing numbers of people own cars, more convenient than buses & trains

Solution – Park-and-ride schemes

We’re almost ready to start writing our IELTS problem solution essay but first, we have one more task to do.

# 3 Vocabulary

During the planning stage, quickly jot down some vocabulary that comes to mind as you decide which cause and solution you are going to write about, especially synonyms of key words. This will save you having to stop and think of the right language while you’re writing. For example:

traffic jam
heavy traffic
private transport
infrastructure

With that done, we can focus on the first paragraph of the essay – the introduction.

How To Write an Introduction

Good introductions to IELTS problem solution essays have a simple 2 part structure:

State 1 key problem/cause and related solution/s (outline sentence)
Have 2-3 sentences
Be 40-60 words long
Take 5 minutes to write

1) Paraphrase the question

Start your introduction by paraphrasing the question.

Question: One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion.

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?

Paraphrased question:

O ne of the most serious issues facing the majority of large urban areas is traffic jams.

Note my use of synonyms to replace key words in the question statement. You don’t have to replace every key word but do so where possible whilst ensuring that your language sounds natural.

2) Outline statement

Now we need to add an outline statement where we outline the two main points that we’ll cover in the rest of the essay, that is, the cause and the solution I chose earlier. Here they are again.

Cause – Too many cars on the roads. Why? – increasing numbers of people own cars, more convenient than buses & trains

And, this is one way to develop them into an outline sentence.

Outline statement:

The main reason for this is that there are too many private cars on the roads these days and a viable solution is to introduce more park-and-ride schemes.

So, let’s bring the two elements of our introduction together.

Introduction

This introduction achieves three important functions:

It shows the examiner that you understand the question.
It acts as a guide to the examiner as to what your essay is about.
It also helps to keep you focused and on track as you write.

The two ideas in your introduction will become your two main body paragraphs.

Main body paragraph 1 – Too many cars on the roads

Main body paragraph 2 – Park-and-ride schemes

How To Write Main Body Paragraphs

Main body paragraphs in IELTS problem solution essays should contain 3 things:

Topic sentence – outline the main idea
Explanation – explain it and g ive more detail

Main Body Paragraph 1

The topic sentence summarises the main idea of the paragraph. That’s all it needs to do so it doesn’t have to be complicated.

It plays an important role in ensuring that your ideas flow logically from one to another. It does this by acting as a signpost for what is to come next, that is, what the paragraph will be about.

If you maintain a clear development of ideas throughout your essay, you will get high marks for task achievement and cohesion and coherence.

We’ll now take the idea for our first main body paragraph and create our topic sentence.

Obviously, we’re going to write about the cause of the problem first.

Main body paragraph 1 – Too many cars on the roads

Topic sentence:

The number of people owning cars increases year on year, with most families now having more than one car.

Next, we must write an explanation sentence that develops the idea.

Explanation sentence:

Most people like the convenience of travelling at the time they want to rather than being restricted to public transport timetables, so they prefer to drive themselves around rather than taking the bus or train. This is despite the fact that they frequently have to sit in long traffic queues as they near the city centre.

Finally, we add an example to support our main point. If you can’t think of a real example, it’s fine to make one up, as long as it’s believable. The examiner isn’t going to check your facts. Alternative, you could add another piece of information to support your idea.

Example sentence:

Whenever I have to attend a meeting in the city, I always drive because it means that I can leave home when I want to rather than getting stressed about getting to the station in time to catch the train.

That’s the 3 parts of our first main body paragraph complete. Here’s the finished paragraph.

We now follow the same process for our second main body paragraph.

Main Body Paragraph 2

Main idea 2 – Park-and-ride schemes

First, we write the topic sentence to summarise the main idea.

Topic sentence:

A solution that is proving successful in many areas is park-and-ride schemes.

Now for the explanation sentence where we expand on this idea.

Explanation sentence:

This is where you park your car for free in a large car park on the outskirts of the city and take a bus for the final part of your journey. The fee you have to pay for the bus trip is usually very small and this public transport system is generally very regular, running every ten minutes or so.

Finally, an example to support this point.

A survey carried out in the city of Exeter showed that the rush hour congestion decreased by 10% when the council set up a park-and-ride scheme to the north of the city. There was an additional drop of another 10% in traffic volume when a second scheme began operating to the south.

That’s the 3 parts of our second main body paragraph complete. Here’s the finished paragraph.

Now we need a conclusion and our IELTS problem solution essay is done.

How To Write a Conclusion

The conclusion is a summary of the main points in your essay and can generally be done in a single sentence. It should never introduce new ideas.

If you're below the minimum 250 words after you’ve written your conclusion, you can add a prediction or recommendation statement.

Our essay is already over the minimum word limit so we don’t need this extra sentence but you can learn more about how to write a prediction or recommendation statement for IELTS problem solution essays on the Task 2 Conclusions page.

The conclusion is the easiest sentence in the essay to write but one of the most important.

A good conclusion will:

Neatly end the essay
Link all your ideas together
Sum up your argument or opinion
Answer the question

If you achieve this, you’ll improve your score for both task achievement and cohesion and coherence which together make up 50% of the overall marks. Without a conclusion, you’ll score below band 6 for task achievement.

You can start almost any final paragraph of an IELTS problem solution essay with the words:

In conclusion

To conclude

Now all you need to do is briefly summarise the main ideas into one sentence.

Here’s a top tip . Go back and read the introduction to the essay because this is also a summary of the essay. It outlines what you are going to write about.

To create a good conclusion, you simply have to paraphrase the introduction.

Introduction:

Here is the same information formed into a conclusion. I’ve also added a personal statement at the end to link back to one of my example sentences. You don’t have to do this but in this case, I think that it rounds the essay off better.

That’s it. We’ve completed our essay. Here it is with the 4 paragraphs put together.

Finished IELTS problem solution essay.

Go through this lesson as many times as you need to in order to fully understand it and put in lots of practice writing IELTS problem solution essays from past exam questions. Practice is the only way to improve your skills.

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More help with ielts problem solution essays & other task 2 essays.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – T he format, the 5 question types, the 5 step essay writing strategy & sample questions. All the key information you need to know.

The 5 Types of Task 2 Essay – How to recognise the 5 different types of Task 2 essays. 15 sample questions to study and a simple planning structure for each essay type.

Understanding Task 2 Questions – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 2 Essay – Discover why essay planning is essential & learn a simple 4 step strategy, the 4 part essay structure & 4 methods of generating ideas.

How To Write a Task 2 Introduction – Find out why a good introduction is essential. Learn how to write one using a simple 3 part strategy & discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Task 2 Main Body Paragraphs – Learn the simple 3 part structure for writing great main body paragraphs and also, 3 common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Task 2 Conclusions – Learn the easy way to write the perfect conclusion for a Task 2 essay. Also discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

Task 2 Marking Criteria – Find out how to meet the marking criteria in Task 2. See examples of good and poor answers & learn some common mistakes to avoid.

The 5 Task 2 Essay Types:

Step-by-step instructions on how to plan & write high-level essays. Model answers & common mistakes to avoid.

Opinion Essays

Discussion Essays

Problem Solution Essays

Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

Double Question Essays

Other Related Pages

IELTS Writing Test – Understand the format & marking criteria, know what skills are assessed & learn the difference between the Academic & General writing tests.

IELTS Writing
Problem Solution Essays
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Addressing Challenges: A Guide to Problem and Solution Essay Topics

Table of contents

1.1 Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics
1.2 Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas
1.3 Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas
1.4 Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay
1.5 Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics
1.6 Economic Problems to Write About
1.7 Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays
1.8 Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics
1.9 Transportation Problem Solution Topics
1.10 Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas
2 Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay
3 Closing Note

Navigating the complexities of real-world issues through the lens of academic inquiry, problem-and-solution essays serve as a dynamic educational tool. Which topic is specific enough for a good problem-and-solution essay? Problem and solution essays are crucial to academic writing, offering students an invaluable opportunity to analyze various situations and articulate effective solutions critically. These essays sharpen critical thinking and problem-solving skills and encourage a deep exploration of a multitude of contemporary issues. By tackling these essays, students gain the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives and develop insights into potential remedies.

This article promises to dive into an extensive array of topics for problem and solution essays, encompassing diverse areas and problems to write about, such as environmental issues, social challenges, healthcare dilemmas, and more.

120 Problem Solution Essay Topics List

With such a rich palette of issues, the next step in crafting an impactful essay becomes crucially important. Selecting an appropriate topic is key when tasked with writing a problem-solving essay. It’s essential to choose a subject that is not only relevant and engaging but also provides ample scope for in-depth research and thorough analysis. This careful selection allows for a detailed exploration of the issue and the formulation of effective solutions. To aid in this process, we have compiled an extensive list of 120 thought-provoking topics for problem-solution essays.

Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics

Combating Climate Change: Strategies for Global Cooperation.
Addressing Ocean Pollution: Cleaning Our Seas.
Deforestation: Reforestation and Sustainable Practices.
Urban Air Pollution: Cleaner Cities.
Endangered Species: Conservation Efforts.
Plastic Waste Management: Innovative Solutions.
Sustainable Agriculture: Feeding the World Responsibly.
Renewable Energy: Transition from Fossil Fuels.
Water Scarcity: Effective Water Management.
Eco-friendly Transportation: Reducing Carbon Footprint.

Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas

Homelessness: Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions.
Gender Inequality: Bridging the Gap in the Workplace.
Racial Discrimination: Fostering Inclusivity.
Bullying in Schools: Prevention Strategies.
Elderly Care: Improving Senior Living.
Child Abuse: Strengthening Child Protection Services.
Poverty Alleviation: Economic Empowerment Programs.
Substance Abuse: Effective Rehabilitation Approaches.
Unemployment: Job Creation Strategies.
Digital Divide: Bridging the Technological Gap.

Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas

Mental Health Stigma: Promoting Awareness and Acceptance.
Obesity Epidemic: Lifestyle and Dietary Changes.
Healthcare Accessibility: Universal Health Coverage.
Pandemic Preparedness: Lessons from COVID-19.
Antibiotic Resistance: Developing New Treatments.
Chronic Diseases: Prevention and Management.
Mental Health in the Workplace: Supporting Employees.
Telemedicine: Bridging the Healthcare Gap.
Health Education: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles.
Drug Affordability: Policies for Cheaper Medications.

Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay

Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Digital Information.
AI Ethics: Balancing Innovation and Privacy.
Social Media Addiction: Finding Digital Balance.
Technological Unemployment: Reskilling the Workforce.
Online Privacy: Protecting Personal Data.
E-waste Management: Sustainable Recycling Practices.
Digital Literacy: Educating the Next Generation.
Internet Censorship: Balancing Freedom and Security.
Tech in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences.
Future of Work: Adapting to Technological Changes.

Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics

Student Loan Debt: Financial Aid and Repayment Options.
Academic Pressure: Promoting a Balanced Education.
Dropout Rates: Improving Student Engagement.
Quality Education in Rural Areas: Bridging the Gap.
Gender Disparity in STEM: Encouraging Female Participation.
Teacher Burnout: Strategies for Support and Retention.
Digital Divide in Education: Accessible Learning for All.
Standardized Testing: Alternatives for Student Assessment.
Special Needs Education: Inclusive Teaching Strategies.
Lifelong Learning: Promoting Continuous Education.

Economic Problems to Write About

Income Inequality: Fair Wage Policies.
Global Trade: Promoting Ethical Practices.
Sustainable Economic Growth: Eco-friendly Business Models.
Financial Literacy: Educating the Public.
Unemployment: Innovative Job Creation Strategies.
Cryptocurrency: Regulation and Security.
Global Poverty: Effective Aid Strategies.
Economic Crises: Preventive Measures and Solutions.
Gig Economy: Ensuring Worker Rights.
Consumer Debt: Promoting Responsible Spending.

Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays

International Conflict Resolution: Peacekeeping Strategies.
Refugee Crisis: Humanitarian Aid and Integration.
Global Hunger: Sustainable Solutions.
Climate Change Migration: International Policies.
Cultural Preservation: Protecting Heritage in a Globalized World.
Human Trafficking: Global Efforts to Combat.
Global Health: Eradicating Communicable Diseases.
Water Crisis: International Cooperation for Water Security.
Wildlife Trafficking: International Laws and Enforcement.
Global Education: Ensuring Access for All.

Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics

Corruption: Transparency and Accountability Measures.
Election Integrity: Ensuring Fair Democratic Processes.
Political Polarization: Fostering Civil Discourse.
Human Rights: Protecting Individual Freedoms.
Press Freedom: Combating Censorship.
Public Trust in Government: Building Confidence through Transparency.
Policy Making: Involving Public Participation.
International Relations: Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution.
Government Surveillance: Balancing Security and Privacy.
Political Activism: Encouraging Civic Engagement.

Transportation Problem Solution Topics

Urban Traffic Congestion: Efficient Public Transport Solutions.
Road Safety: Reducing Accidents and Fatalities.
Sustainable Aviation: Eco-Friendly Air Travel.
Maritime Pollution: Cleaner Shipping Practices.
Electric Vehicles: Infrastructure and Adoption.
Public Transportation Accessibility: Inclusive Design.
Bicycle-Friendly Cities: Promoting Cycling Infrastructure.
Autonomous Vehicles: Ethical and Practical Considerations.
Urban Planning: Integrating Efficient Transportation Systems.
Transportation in Rural Areas: Improving Connectivity.

Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas

Cultural Appropriation: Promoting Cultural Sensitivity.
Ethical Consumerism: Making Informed Choices.
Media Bias: Promoting Objective Reporting.
Animal Rights: Ethical Treatment and Welfare.
Online Censorship: Balancing Free Speech and Regulations.
Genetic Engineering: Ethical Implications and Regulations.
Work-Life Balance: Corporate Policies for Better Harmony.
Privacy in the Digital Age: Ethical Considerations.
Artificial Intelligence: Addressing Ethical Concerns.
Cultural Preservation: Respecting and Protecting Heritage.

Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay

Selecting an easy topic for a problem-solving essay is a strategic process that can significantly streamline your writing phase. Which topic is specific enough for a good problem-and-solution essay? To identify such a topic, begin by reflecting on common challenges faced in everyday life, whether they pertain to personal, community, or global issues. An easy topic often lies in an area where you have personal experience or interest, as this familiarity can provide a wealth of insights and ready solutions. Additionally, consider issues with widespread impact yet are manageable in scope, ensuring that your essay can propose realistic and achievable solutions. Researching current events and trends can also unveil relevant and engaging topics, yet not overly complex, making them ideal candidates for a concise and focused essay. Here are 20 easy problem and solution topics:

Reducing Stress in College: Time Management Strategies.
Healthy Eating on a Budget: Accessible Nutrition.
Overcoming Procrastination: Effective Techniques.
Managing Social Media Use: Finding a Healthy Balance.
Improving Sleep Quality: Strategies for Better Rest.
Balancing School and Work: Time Management Tips.
Reducing Screen Time: Encouraging Outdoor Activities.
Dealing with Bullying in Schools: Prevention and Intervention.
Encouraging Physical Activity: Community Fitness Programs.
Improving Reading Habits: Encouraging Literary Engagement.
Enhancing Community Safety: Neighborhood Watch Programs.
Reducing Littering: Effective Waste Management.
Coping with Anxiety: Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques.
Promoting Environmental Awareness: Educational Campaigns.
Addressing Teen Smoking: Prevention and Education.
Encouraging Volunteerism: Community Involvement Programs.
Reducing Carbon Footprint: Sustainable Lifestyle Changes.
Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking: Confidence Building.
Enhancing Road Safety: Awareness and Enforcement.
Promoting Cultural Understanding: Exchange Programs.

By aligning your selection with areas of personal insight or concern, you ease the research and writing process and infuse your essay with authenticity and enthusiasm.

Closing Note

In conclusion, problems and solutions examples offer a platform to address a plethora of issues, ranging from personal challenges to global concerns. The problem-solution paper topics listed in this article provide diverse issues to explore, offering opportunities for critical thinking and solution-focused writing. Whether you choose a complex global issue or a simpler, more relatable topic, the key is to present a well-researched problem and propose feasible and effective solutions. It is a problem-solving solution essay topic guide for college students guide. Thus, young people develop their writing skills through these essays and contribute their voices to ongoing discussions about important matters. Remember, every problem has a solution, and your essay could be the first step toward finding it.

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IELTS Problem Solution Essay - Topics, Structure and Sample Answers

Updated On Sep 26, 2024

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The IELTS problem solution essay tests your ability to identify issues and propose solutions. Focus on one or two problems, provide clear solutions, and use examples. Ensure a structured essay and proofread for errors.

Identifying a problem solution essay ielts, problem solution essay ielts topics, how to write a problem solution essay ielts, structure of problem solution essay, breakdown of the ielts problem solution essay format, common mistakes to avoid in ielts problem solution essays, tips for ielts problem solution essays, problem solution essay ielts topics with sample answers:.

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The IELTS problem solution essays is a type of IELTS writing task 2 that asks you to discuss a problem and propose possible solutions. You get 40 minutes to complete this task and have to write at least 250 words on the topic given.

Therefore, to do well in IELTS Writing Task 2 , it is important to be familiar with the structure, range of IELTS problem solution essay questions and tips on how to handle them.

The IELTS problem solution essays are designed to assess your ability to identify, analyze, and evaluate problems or causes, as well as your ability to develop and articulate effective solutions. They are quite similar to IELTS cause and solution essays.

Each essay type in IELTS Writing has a unique structure, so it’s important to identify the common synonyms, words, and phrases used in problem solution questions. Here are the keywords and their synonyms used in the examples above:

Problem: issues, resulting, situation
Cause: reasons, why
Solution: deal with, addressed, tackled, remedied, improved, measures taken, solved, prevent

However, you will mostly be asked to write about both the problem and its solution. The first part of the question will state the problem or cause, and the second part will ask you to identify solutions.

Problem solution essay IELTS topics can be drawn from a variety of sources and are based on real-world situations and issues. Let us check out some problem and solution essay topics to see how it is often worded as:

One major problem faced by large cities is traffic congestion. What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?
Most countries believe that international tourism has harmful effects. What problems are caused by international tourism? Solutions to change negative attitudes?
Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems. Identify one or two serious ones and suggest ways that the community can tackle these problems.
Many museums and historical sites are mainly visited by tourists but not local people. Why is this the case and what can be done to attract more local people to visit these places?
Corruption becomes a common disease among several nations. What are the causes and measures to resolve this trend? Give your own examples and explain.
Scientists tell us some activities are good for health and others are bad. Despite knowing that, millions of people continue doing unhealthy activities. What are the causes and what are the solutions?
Nowadays businesses face problems with new employees who just finished their education and lack some interpersonal skills such as the ability to work in a team. What do you think is the main cause of the problem? How can it be resolved?
An increasing number of professionals, such as doctors and teachers, are leaving their own poorer countries to work in developed countries. What problems does this cause? What solutions can you suggest to deal with this situation?
The consumption of the world’s resources is increasing at a dangerous rate. What are causes and solutions?
Nowadays more and more people are becoming overweight. What are the reasons for this and what can be the solutions?
Nowadays, many people complain that they have difficulties getting enough sleep. What problems can lack of sleep? What can be done about lack of sleep?
Many animal species are becoming extinct as a result of human activities. What are the causes and possible solutions to this problem?

To plan and write a problem solution essay IELTS while practising the IELTS Writing Task 2 sample essays or the actual exam, you can follow these steps:

Understand the question - The first step is to carefully read the question and understand what is being asked. You should identify the problem, the cause(s) of the problem, and the required solution(s).
Brainstorm your ideas - Once you understand the question, take some time to brainstorm your ideas. What are the different aspects of the problem? What are the possible causes? What are the different solutions that could be implemented?
Organize your ideas - Once you have a good understanding of the problem and its possible solutions, it is time to organize your ideas into a logical structure.
Write your essay - When writing your essay, be sure to use clear and concise language. Avoid using complex sentences and jargon. You should also support your claims with evidence from credible sources.
Proofread your essay - Once you have finished writing your essay, be sure to proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.

For a better understanding of how to write PROBLEM SOLUTION Essay in the video below!

Now that we have understood how to write a problem solution essay, let’s have a look at the structure of a problem solution essay. You can also check tips to write an effective introduction in IELTS Writing Task 2 to present a great IELTS problem solution essay!

Enroll in our free IELTS online coaching today and learn how to identify and write problem solution essays like a champ!

Let’s do an example problem solution essay from an IELTS Writing practice test to understand the above mentioned structure.

Problem Solution Essay Example with Structure

Introduction:.

Before you begin writing your problem solution essay, read the question and identify the problem/ solution.
Note down the ideas that come to your mind naturally. For example, look at the table below.
Choose one of the problems and discuss it in detail. Here’s an example:
Problem : Dumping of industrial wastes into the nearby water bodies.
Solution : They must be treated, purified and recycled.
Wastewater treatment
Biodegradable products
Water bodies such as lakes, rivers etc

You should paraphrase the question and outline the problem and solution in your introduction as mentioned below:

Body Paragraph 1:

The body paragraph 1 must be organised as follows:

Main body paragraph 1: Letting out of industrial wastes in nearby water bodies
Central idea: Industries are increasing in number.
Explanation : There are no strict rules in place regarding the environment. So industries let out their wastes into the nearby water bodies such as lakes, rivers, etc which affects the respective eco-system and thereby leading to more serious issues.
Example : As installing a wastewater treatment plant is an additional burden and is costly, it is easier to let the waste water into the nearby water bodies as nobody questions this.

The completed main body paragraph 1 will look like this :

Body Paragraph 2:

The body paragraph 2 must be organised as follows:

Main body paragraph 2: Industrial wastewater treatment
Central idea: Installing Industrial waste water treatment plants could be beneficial to the environment.
Explanation : Industrial wastewater treatment illustrates the processes used for treating wastewater that is produced by industries into a by-product. The treated industrial wastewater may be reused or released to a sanitary sewer.
Examples: There are proven records for reducing water pollution after wastewater treatment.

The completed main body paragraph 2 will look like this :

Conclusion:

Make sure to sum up all that has been in the previous paragraphs.
Use words like in summary, to summarise, to conclude, or as a conclusion, etc.

The final conclusion will look like this:

Sample Answer

Therefore, the finished essay will have the following structure:

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Following are some of the common mistakes that should be avoided in IELTS problem solution essays to increase your overall IELTS band score :

Not understanding the difference between a problem and its causes.
Trying to include too many ideas in the essay, without developing them fully.
Not considering both sides of the argument equally.
Not linking the problems to the solutions.
Not being specific enough in the discussion of the problems and solutions.
Using incorrect IELTS Vocabulary and making spelling errors.

Here are some IELTS Writing tips to follow while practicing or writing an IELTS Problem Solution Essays:

Read and understand the instructions given in the question (sometimes the question might ask to write about the cause of the issue as well).
Follow the word count (no less than 250 words)
Plan the problems and solutions you wish to write about, before starting to write.
Start the essay with an introduction paragraph and conclude it with a conclusion paragraph, with the body paragraph between the two.
If you’re asked to write about both, cause and the solution, then you can write the cause in one body paragraph and the solution in the next body paragraph.

Pro tip: To avoid a low score in IELTS problem solution essays, focus on one or two problems and identify specific solutions. Explain the problems and solutions in detail, with examples.

Check out some sample IELTS problem solution essay topics with model answers:

Get the inside scoop on how to write a high-scoring IELTS problem solution essay from our IELTS expert in our free webinar. Book your Seat Now !

Also check :

IELTS Writing recent actual test
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All Useful IELTS Writing Lessons & Websites
IELTS Band 9 Essays

Frequently Asked Questions

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Janice Thompson

Soon after graduating with a Master’s in Literature from Southern Arkansas University, she joined an institute as an English language trainer. She has had innumerous student interactions and has produced a couple of research papers on English language teaching. She soon found that non-native speakers struggled to meet the English language requirements set by foreign universities. It was when she decided to jump ship into IELTS training. From then on, she has been mentoring IELTS aspirants. She joined IELTSMaterial about a year ago, and her contributions have been exceptional. Her essay ideas and vocabulary have taken many students to a band 9.

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A problem-solution essay is a type of academic essay that explores a particular issue or challenge, and presents a potential course of action to address it. The purpose of a problem-and-solution essay is to identify a problem or issue, and to provide a practical solution or strategy for resolving it.

With so many unsolved issues, it’s easy to find some good questions for consideration. All you need is to look around or read the news. Writing a problem and solution essay won’t take much time and effort if you know what details to cover and what order you should follow. By using our ultimate guide, you will be able to compose an excellent and convincing essay with minimal effort. Close social networks and YouTube, spend 5 minutes reading our article to take to any problem solution essay topics like a duck to water. Have a tough deadline? Consider paying someone to write your essay . StudyCrumb experts will deliver a perfect problem and solution essay tailored to your requirements.

What Is a Problem Solution Essay: Definition

A problem and solution essay is a type of academic writing that defines some specific issue and provides steps to solve it. This kind of essay is aimed at assessing a student's ability to find some controversial problem and offer a clear problem-solving strategy. Your topic should be relatively simple to write about. It’s good if it meets the general public's interests. Some popular topics for this essay include such issues:

Environmental pollution
Internet addiction
Infrastructure
Religious issues
Social movements.

No matter what topic you choose, it should motivate you to think and look for ways of solving the problem. You should analyze it, study various strategies, and choose which one fits best. In a problem and solution essay, you can write about more than one problem. However, your solution is only efficient when several subjects in question fall into the same field. Otherwise, it will be difficult to focus on the right solution.

Problem Solution Essay Outline

One of the most important steps of your writing process is creating a problem solution essay outline . Without it, your paper will be unstructured and poorly organized. This is not the case when there is an efficient well-thought-out plan. Writing an outline is crucial on the way to composing a brilliant essay. It will help you stay on point without deviating from the issue. This way, you can save time and effort. Unlike any other type of writing, a problem and solution essay provides some room for flexibility. You can create an outline using two different methods:

Block method
Chain method.

Each of these methods have their advantages and can be applied depending on the situation that will be covered. Let’s look at each of these approaches more in detail. The block outline has the following structure:

Introduction – presents the topic and contains 4-5 short sentences.

Main body – contains 2-3 paragraphs, each of them beginning with a topic sentence.

Body paragraph

Conclusion – sums up all main points.

Block method allows you to look at multiple problems or solutions using separate paragraphs. However, mastering this approach at first may be somewhat difficult. The chain method is more appropriate if you want to focus on some unified idea within one body paragraph. Here’s an example of chain outline:

Introduction

Body paragraph 1

Body paragraph 2

This approach helps you explore an issue step-by-step. For this reason, it may be easier for beginners.

How to Write a Problem Solution Essay

Now, it’s time that we learn how to write a problem and solution essay. Further, we will tell you about the best way of doing it. Below, you will find detailed information on perfecting each section of your essay. We will specifically shed more light on:

Acquaintance with the problem’s background
Description of the issue’s specifics
Explanation why it should be solved
Suggested solution and assessment
Call to action .

Let’s learn the secrets of writing a successful essay firsthand!

How to Start a Problem Solution Essay: Introduction

The first section is a problem solution essay introduction. It should include such components:

Thesis statement.

Your opening paragraph should specify an issue, as well as provide some background information. Think over the first sentence that will captivate your readers. Everything must be clear from the very first lines. If one gets your idea at once, it’s almost in the bag. It may take some time to come up with a catchy hook, but you will be rewarded with an A+. Consider rare statistics, any little-known fact, or some hype information. Remember that your second and third sentences should naturally flow into further discussion. Develop your idea by introducing some context. By the way, you can write an introduction after the rest of your essay is complete. Just make sure you have a thesis statement. After all, it’s the ground of your essay. All main points should be related to your thesis.

How to Write an Outstanding Problem Solution Essay Body

The next part in the problem and solution essay is the main body. Here, you should suggest ways of solving the issue. It would be great if you analyzed probable consequences of problem-solving actions. You should support why you think the specific measures are necessary and what they will result in. Usually, the main body of a problem and solution essay includes 3 paragraphs. Every body paragraph focuses on different aspects:

Discuss an issue and offer your solution
Explain why your strategy will work
Provide some counter argument and refute it.

Argumentation is essential. By using it, you can convince readers that your strategy is correct. There is a good way to make powerful arguments. You should start with a statement, followed by an explanation. Back up your point of view with supportive examples. Then comes your final judgment. You can create transitions between paragraphs to make it easier for readers to follow a train of thought.

How to Write a Conclusion for a Problem Solution Essay

Congratulations! You’ve reached the last stage – a problem and solution essay conclusion. It usually contains 4-5 sentences summarizing your reasoning. In this part, you can make a general conclusion. It should include strong statements about what has been written. You can rephrase your thesis statement and share your final thoughts. The goal of the last part is to draw a complete picture and make readers think. Your last paragraph shouldn’t contain any fundamentally new facts – only a general summary of points mentioned above. Try StudyCrumb’s summarizer tool if you have challenges ending your problem and solution writing. Your writing style in conclusion must always correspond to the style of your entire essay. Don’t try to stay on the safe side by using such phrases as “in my humble opinion”, “I am not an expert, but”. Readers will see them as excuses and uncertainty, which you definitely don’t want. What they should understand is that your essay is over and there is a logical conclusion.

Problem Solution Essays Examples

It is important to study a problem solution essay example before writing your own work. This way, you will be able to assess all the aspects and see how other authors coped with a similar task. You can borrow an exact structure or method of handling the situation. Our examples won’t replace your essay. You shouldn’t copy or assign them to yourself. Focus on creating unique and useful content.

Problem and Solution Essay: Writing and Proofreading Tips

You will be able to become a master of writing a problem and solution essay by following these great tips:

After finishing your work, leave your paper for a while. Later, you will be able to return to it and assess it with a fresh approach.
Check whether you’ve used all the above-mentioned components.
Make sure that your thesis clearly states your paper’s topic.
Perform in-depth research on your issue and explore existing resolutions.
Ensure that your solutions are realistic and can be implemented.
Use special tools to “grade my essay” and check whether your spelling and punctuation are correct.
Ask your relative, family member, or friend to proofread your work. A couple of extra eyes will ensure that there are no logical and grammatical errors.

You should also pay attention to the paper formatting style. Use the same font and text style throughout your essay.

Problem/ Solution Essay: Bottom Line

As you can see, there is nothing super hard about writing a problems and solution essay. Hopefully, our detailed guide will help you complete your assignment. Of course, you should be ready to test which approach works best for you. After all, you should strive for continuous improvement.

You can always rely on our top-notch academic writing service. We guarantee high quality, efficiency, affordable prices, and timely delivery. Order your paper now to succeed tomorrow!