
IELTS Problem Solution Essays
IELTS problem solution essays are a specific type of IELTS Writing Task 2 that require you to discuss an issue and propose practical solutions. You are given 40 minutes to complete this task, with a minimum word count of 250. To excel in this task, understanding the essay structure, variety of questions, and effective strategies is essential.
Identifying a Problem Solution Essay
Problem solution essays in IELTS evaluate your ability to pinpoint, analyze, and address problems or their causes while suggesting actionable solutions. These essays share similarities with cause-and-solution essays.
Recognizing keywords in the question is critical. Common terms include:
- Problem: issues, challenges, situation
- Cause: reasons, origin
- Solution: resolved, tackled, improved, addressed
Typically, these questions ask you to discuss both the issue and its resolution. The first part outlines the problem, while the second prompts solutions.
Popular Problem Solution Essay Topics
These essay topics often relate to real-world issues. Examples include:
- Traffic congestion in cities: Causes and solutions.
- Negative impacts of international tourism: Problems and remedies.
- Overpopulation in urban areas: Challenges and community strategies.
- Encouraging locals to visit museums and historical sites.
- Addressing corruption through practical measures.
- Why people continue unhealthy habits despite knowing better and how to mitigate this.
How to Write a Problem Solution Essay
Follow these steps to write an effective problem solution essay:
- Understand the Question: Carefully analyze what is being asked, identifying the problem, its causes, and required solutions.
- Brainstorm Ideas: Generate ideas about various aspects of the problem, its causes, and feasible solutions.
- Organize Thoughts: Arrange your ideas in a logical flow.
- Write Clearly: Use simple, concise language supported by relevant examples.
- Proofread: Check for grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors.
Breakdown of the IELTS Problem Solution Essay Format
Let’s analyze an example problem solution essay from an IELTS Writing practice test to understand the structure.
Structure of a Problem Solution Essay
Here’s the basic format:
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question.
- Briefly state the main problem and proposed solution.
Main Body Paragraph 1
- Discuss the problem or its causes in detail.
- Provide relevant examples.
Main Body Paragraph 2
- Outline the solution in depth.
- Provide supporting examples.
Conclusion
- Summarize the discussion and offer recommendations if applicable.
Example: Tackling Global Warming
Introduction: Rising sea levels due to global warming pose a significant threat. A major cause is industrial waste disposal in water bodies. Implementing wastewater treatment is a practical solution.
Main Body Paragraph 1
Main Point: Industries discharge waste into rivers and lakes due to a lack of strict regulations. This adversely impacts ecosystems. The high cost of treatment plants is often a deterrent.
Main Body Paragraph 2
Solution: Installing wastewater treatment plants can help mitigate this issue. Such systems treat industrial waste, making it reusable or safe for disposal.
Conclusion
Summary: Mandating wastewater treatment in industries will reduce pollution and combat global warming effectively.
Problem Solution Essay Example with Structure
Global warming is emerging as a significant threat to human survival in the 21st Century, with sea levels rising at alarming rates.
Body Paragraph 1
Main Point: Dumping of industrial wastes into nearby water bodies.
Explanation: Industries are increasing in number. Due to the lack of strict environmental regulations, many industries discharge waste into lakes and rivers, disrupting ecosystems and causing severe problems.
Body Paragraph 2
Main Point: Industrial wastewater treatment.
Explanation: Installing wastewater treatment plants benefits the environment by treating industrial waste. The treated by-products can be reused or safely discharged into sanitary sewers.
Conclusion
Summary: Every industry should install wastewater treatment plants to reduce water pollution and benefit the environment. This step will mitigate global warming effects and prevent rising sea levels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing problems with causes.
- Overloading the essay with ideas without proper development.
- Failing to link problems and solutions effectively.
- Using inappropriate vocabulary or making spelling errors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Understand the instructions thoroughly.
- Stick to the word count (minimum 250 words).
- Plan your ideas before writing.
- Structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Focus on 1-2 problems with specific solutions and examples.
Clear writing is a sign of clear thinking. Focus on delivering solutions with simplicity and precision.
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