Sample essays and conclusions should be completed.

1. Introduction

If you’re preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2, you may already know that one of the most common essay types is the problem-solution essay. Mastering problem-solution essays is a key element in achieving a high score in the IELTS Writing exam.

A problem-solution essay is a type of essay that requires you to identify a problem, analyze its causes and effects, and propose a solution to address the problem. The aim of this essay is to demonstrate your ability to analyze a complex issue, develop a coherent argument, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures.

In a problem-solution essay, you are required to:

• Identify the problem: This can be a social issue, environmental problem, or any other issue that affects society.

• Analyze the causes and/ or effects of the problem: You should discuss the underlying causes of the problem and the effects it has on individuals, communities, and the environment.

• Propose a solution(s): You should provide a detailed solution to the problem and explain why it is a viable option. Your solution should be supported by evidence and examples.

In this article, we’ll provide you with the ultimate guide to writing problem-solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2. We’ll cover everything you need to know to write an effective essay, from understanding the format and decoding the prompts to outlining your essay, generating ideas, crafting a strong thesis statement, analyzing the problem, proposing solutions, using cohesive devices and vocabulary, and polishing your essay.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to approach problem-solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2 and be ready to tackle any prompt that comes your way. This guide will help you improve your writing skills and boost your chances of success in the IELTS exam. So, let’s get started!

2. Understanding the Problem-Solution Essay Format

The format of a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 typically follows a four-paragraph structure:

• Introduction: In this section, you should introduce the topic and provide some background information on the problem. You can also include a thesis statement that outlines your proposed solution.

• Problem Analysis: In this paragraph, you should provide a detailed analysis of the problem, including its causes and effects. You should also provide evidence and examples to support your argument.

• Solution Proposal: In this paragraph, you should propose a solution to the problem. You should provide a detailed explanation of how your proposed solution will address the problem and why it is a viable option. Again, evidence and examples should be provided to support your argument.

• Conclusion: In the conclusion, you should summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis statement. You can also provide some final thoughts on the importance of your proposed solution.

It is essential to use appropriate transitional phrases to link your ideas and make your essay cohesive. Examples of transitional phrases include “firstly,” “secondly,” “however,” “furthermore,” and “in conclusion.”

Additionally, it is essential to use appropriate vocabulary related to the problem and solution. This will demonstrate your ability to use a range of vocabulary and express yourself fluently.

3. Decoding IELTS Writing Task 2 Prompts

Before you start writing your problem-solution essay for IELTS Writing Task 2, it is crucial to decode the prompt properly.

The prompt for a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 typically includes three main parts:

1. The background information: This part of the prompt provides some context and background information on the problem you will be addressing in your essay. It may include facts, statistics, or anecdotal evidence that help to define the issue.
2. The problem statement: This part of the prompt clearly states the problem you will be discussing in your essay. It should be specific and focused and should identify the key issues that you will be exploring in your analysis.
3. The task: This part of the prompt outlines the specific task you are being asked to perform in your essay. For a problem-solution essay, the task will typically require you to identify the causes and effects of the problem, propose a solution to address it and evaluate the potential effectiveness of your proposed solution.

It is essential to read the prompt carefully and make sure that you understand all three parts of it before beginning to write your essay. This will ensure that you address all the requirements of the task and provide a well-structured, coherent response.

Here’s an example of a prompt for a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2:

“Many people believe that the use of smartphones has led to a decrease in face-to-face communication. What are the causes of this problem, and what solutions can be proposed to address it?”

The different parts of this prompt can be analyzed as follows:

1. Background information: This part of the prompt provides some context for the problem, which is the decrease in face-to-face communication. It suggests that the problem is related to the use of smartphones, which implies that smartphones are a key factor contributing to the problem.
2. Problem statement: The problem statement is clear and specific – it is the decrease in face-to-face communication. This part of the prompt identifies the issue that you will be discussing in your essay.
3. Task: The task in this prompt requires you to identify the causes of the problem (which are implied to be related to the use of smartphones) and propose solutions to address it. The prompt does not specify how many causes or solutions you should discuss, but you should aim to provide a comprehensive analysis that covers all the key issues related to the problem.

The best way to read and analyze the parts of the prompt in a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to follow these steps:

• Read the prompt carefully: Read the prompt several times to ensure that you understand what is being asked of you. Take note of the problem statement, any background information provided, and the specific task you are being asked to perform.

• Identify the keywords: Identify the keywords in the prompt that relate to the problem, causes, and solutions. This will help you stay focused on the task and ensure that you address all the requirements of the prompt.

It cannot be emphasized enough how crucial it is to read and understand the prompt in a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2. Failure to do so can result in an essay that does not address the requirements of the task or fails to answer the question effectively.

4. Outlining and Organizing Your Essay

Organizing your essay means arranging your ideas in a logical and coherent manner that makes your essay easy to read and understand. It involves structuring your essay in a way that flows smoothly from one idea to the next, using appropriate transitional phrases to link your ideas and create coherence. Organizing your essay is important as it helps you to communicate your ideas effectively and allows the reader to follow your thought process and arguments.

To organize your essay effectively, you should start by creating an outline that includes the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. This will help you stay focused on the task and ensure that your essay is well-structured and coherent.

Next, you should divide your body paragraphs into sections that address specific points related to the problem and proposed solution. Each section should be clearly identified and developed in a coherent and logical manner.

Within each section, you should use appropriate transitional phrases to link your ideas and make your essay cohesive. Examples of transitional words include “firstly,” “secondly,” “however,” “furthermore,” and “in conclusion.”

Finally, you should check for clarity and coherence before submitting your essay. Make sure that your ideas flow logically and are easy to follow. Use transitional phrases to link your ideas and make your essay cohesive. By organizing your essay effectively, you can ensure that your ideas are communicated clearly and effectively to the reader.

Here are some tips on outlining and organizing your essay for a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2:

• Create an outline: Before you start writing, create an outline that includes the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. This will help you stay focused on the task and ensure that your essay is well-structured and coherent.

• Start with a strong introduction: Your introduction should provide some background information on the problem and clearly state your thesis statement, which outlines your proposed solution to the problem.

• Divide your body paragraphs: Divide your body paragraphs into two or three sections, depending on the complexity of the problem and the proposed solution. Each paragraph should discuss a specific point related to the problem or solution.

• Analyze the problem: In the first body paragraph, analyze the problem and its causes. Use evidence and examples to support your analysis.

• Propose a solution: In the second body paragraph (or second and third, if you have three body paragraphs), propose a solution to the problem. Explain how your proposed solution will address the problem and why it is a viable option. Use evidence and examples to support your argument.

• Summarize your main points: In the conclusion, summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis statement. You can also provide some final thoughts on the importance of your proposed solution.

Planning your essay is an essential part of answering all types of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, including problem-solution essays.

5. Effective Strategies for Generating Ideas

Brainstorming and generating ideas for a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 can be challenging, but there are several effective strategies that you can use. Here are some practical methods for brainstorming and generating ideas:

• Freewriting: Freewriting is a technique where you write down everything that comes to mind without worrying about grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Set a timer for 10 minutes and write down as many ideas as possible related to the problem and proposed solution.

• Mind Mapping: Mind Mapping is a visual brainstorming technique that helps you to organize your ideas into a hierarchical structure. Start with the main problem and create branches for the causes, effects, and potential solutions. Use colors, symbols, and images to make your mind map more engaging and memorable.

• Reverse Brainstorming: Reverse brainstorming is a technique where you brainstorm ideas for making the problem worse, rather than solving it. Once you have a list of ideas for making the problem worse, you can then flip them around to create solutions to the problem.

• Reading credible sample essays is another effective strategy for brainstorming and generating ideas for a problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2. By reading sample essays, you can get a better understanding of how other writers have addressed the same or similar problems, and how they have proposed solutions to the problem.

• Group Discussion: Discuss the problem and proposed solution with a group of people. This can be an effective way to generate new ideas and perspectives that you may not have considered before.

• Research: Conduct research on the problem and proposed solution. Look for relevant data, statistics, and examples that support your arguments. This can help you to develop a more informed and evidence-based analysis.

Brainstorming for multiple problems and solutions is essential when preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2, as it allows you to anticipate potential questions and develop a range of responses that can be adapted to different prompts. This is particularly important for common IELTS topics, such as education, environment, health, crime, and technology, as these topics are frequently tested in the exam.

One effective way to brainstorm for multiple problems and solutions is to review previous writing questions and identify common themes or patterns. For example, you can review past IELTS Writing Task 2 questions related to education and identify common problems, such as overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages, and inadequate funding. You can then brainstorm potential solutions to these problems, such as reducing class sizes, providing professional development opportunities for teachers, and increasing government funding for education.

Similarly, for environmental topics, you can brainstorm problems related to climate change, pollution, and deforestation, and propose solutions such as reducing carbon emissions, recycling, and promoting renewable energy sources. By brainstorming for multiple problems and solutions, you can prepare for a range of potential questions and develop a deeper understanding of the common issues and solutions related to a particular topic.

6. Crafting a Strong Thesis Statement

A clear and concise thesis statement is essential for problem-solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2 because it provides the reader with a clear understanding of your position and the proposed solution to the problem. The thesis statement should be located in the introduction paragraph and should clearly state the problem and the proposed solution. A strong thesis statement will guide the reader through the rest of the essay and ensure that the essay stays focused on the task.

Examples of thesis statements for problem-solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2:

“The increasing amount of plastic waste in our oceans is a pressing environmental problem that can be solved by implementing policies to reduce plastic use and increase recycling.”

“The rise in childhood obesity can be attributed to a lack of physical activity and unhealthy diets, and can be addressed by promoting healthy eating habits and increasing access to exercise opportunities.”

Guidelines for developing a clear and concise thesis statement for problem-solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2:

• Clearly state the problem: Begin your thesis statement by clearly stating the problem that you will be addressing in your essay.

• Propose a solution: After stating the problem, propose a solution to the problem that you will be discussing in your essay.

• Keep it concise: Your thesis statement should be one or two sentences at most. Avoid including unnecessary details or information that is not directly related to the problem or solution.

• Make it specific: Your thesis statement should be specific and clearly focused on the problem and solution you will be discussing in your essay.

• Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures: Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures related to the problem and solution to demonstrate your language proficiency.

By developing a clear and concise thesis statement for problem-solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2, you can ensure that your essay is focused, coherent, and easy to follow. A strong thesis statement will guide the reader through the rest of the essay and demonstrate your ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and use appropriate language.

Here are two sample thesis statements for each of the 10 most common writing task 2 problem solution essay topics:

1. Education

• “The issue of overcrowded classrooms in schools can be addressed by reducing class sizes and providing more funding for education.”
• “The shortage of qualified teachers in developing countries can be resolved by providing training opportunities and financial incentives to encourage more individuals to pursue a career in teaching.”

2. Environment

• “The problem of air pollution in urban areas can be solved by promoting the use of electric vehicles and improving public transportation systems.”
• “The issue of plastic waste in our oceans can be addressed by implementing policies to reduce plastic use and increase recycling.”

3. Health

• “The rise in childhood obesity can be attributed to a lack of physical activity and unhealthy diets, and can be addressed by promoting healthy eating habits and increasing access to exercise opportunities.”
• “The issue of mental health problems in young adults can be addressed by increasing access to mental health services and providing more education and awareness about mental health.”

4. Crime

• “The issue of gun violence in the United States can be addressed by implementing stricter gun control laws and increasing background checks on gun owners.”
• “The problem of drug trafficking can be addressed by increasing international cooperation and implementing more effective law enforcement strategies.”

5. Technology

• “The problem of cyberbullying can be addressed by implementing stricter laws and providing more education and awareness about the harmful effects of cyberbullying.”
• “The issue of job loss due to automation can be addressed by providing education and training opportunities for individuals to develop skills in new and emerging fields.”

6. Urbanization

• “The problem of traffic congestion in cities can be addressed by promoting the use of public transportation and implementing congestion pricing policies.”
• “The issue of inadequate housing in urban areas can be addressed by implementing policies to increase affordable housing options and improve living conditions in existing housing.”

7. Globalization

• “The problem of income inequality can be addressed by implementing policies to promote a more equal distribution of wealth and providing more education and training opportunities for individuals to develop new skills.”
• “The issue of cultural homogenization can be addressed by promoting cultural diversity and providing more education and awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage.”

8. Immigration

• “The problem of illegal immigration can be addressed by implementing more effective border control measures and providing more legal channels for individuals to migrate.”
• “The issue of discrimination against immigrants can be addressed by promoting more inclusive policies and providing more education and awareness about the benefits of diversity.”

9. Politics

• “The issue of political polarization can be addressed by promoting more civil discourse and encouraging individuals to engage in more constructive political discussions.”
• “The problem of corruption in government can be addressed by implementing more effective anti-corruption measures and promoting more transparency and accountability in government.”

10. Economy

• “The problem of unemployment can be addressed by promoting more education and training opportunities for individuals to develop new skills and creating more job opportunities in emerging fields.”
• “The issue of income inequality can be addressed by implementing policies to promote a more equal distribution of wealth and providing more support for low-income individuals and families.”

7. Analyzing the Problem: Tips and Techniques

Analyzing the problem is a critical aspect of writing a successful problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2. Here are some strategies for doing this:

• Provide relevant background information: Begin your analysis by providing relevant background information about the problem. This could include the history of the problem, the scope of the problem, and any relevant data or statistics that help to illustrate the problem. Providing this information will help to contextualize the problem and demonstrate your knowledge of the topic.

• Present the issue’s significance: Explain why the problem is significant and why it needs to be addressed. This could include the impact of the problem on individuals, communities, or society as a whole. By presenting the issue’s significance, you can help to engage the reader and demonstrate the importance of your proposed solution.

• Identify key causes and effects: Analyze the problem by identifying its key causes and effects. This could involve conducting research to identify the root causes of the problem. Use evidence and examples to support your analysis, and present your findings in a clear and logical manner.

• Provide examples: Provide real-life examples to illustrate the problem. This can help to make your analysis more concrete and relatable to the reader.

• Consider the implications of the problem: Consider the implications of the problem for individuals, society, and the environment. This can help to provide a more holistic analysis of the problem and show that you have considered the broader implications of the issue.

• Use appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures: Use appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures related to the problem to demonstrate your language proficiency. This includes using academic language and avoiding informal language and slang.

By following these strategies, you can effectively analyze the problem and demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the issue. This will help to engage the reader and establish the credibility of your proposed solution.

Remember to focus on presenting evidence and examples to support your analysis and to use appropriate language and structure to convey your ideas clearly and effectively.

8. Proposing a Solution: Ideas and Execution

Proposing a well-thought-out and practical solution is an essential part of writing a successful problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2. Here are some strategies for proposing a practical solution:

• Identify the most effective solution: To propose a practical solution, you need to identify the most effective solution to the problem. This involves considering different solutions and weighing the pros and cons of each option.

• Be specific: Be specific about your proposed solution. Provide clear details about how your proposed solution would work in practice and how it would address the root cause of the problem.

• Provide evidence: Provide evidence to support your proposed solution. Use relevant data and statistics to demonstrate that your proposed solution is effective and feasible.

• Consider different perspectives: Consider different perspectives when proposing your solution. This can help to identify potential challenges or limitations of your proposed solution and show that you have considered multiple viewpoints.

• Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures: Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures related to the solution to demonstrate your language proficiency and show that you have a strong understanding of the proposed solution.

By proposing a well-thought-out and practical solution, you can demonstrate your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Your proposed solution should be specific, feasible, and supported by evidence. By considering different perspectives and weighing the pros and cons of different solutions, you can develop a more nuanced and persuasive argument for your proposed solution.

9. Enhancing Your Essay with Cohesive Devices and Vocabulary

Using cohesive devices, such as transition words and phrases, and incorporating varied and precise vocabulary can greatly improve the overall flow and clarity of your problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2. Here are some guidelines for using cohesive devices and vocabulary effectively:

Use transition words and phrases: Use transition words and phrases to connect ideas and help your essay flow smoothly. Common transition words and phrases include “however,” “moreover,” “in addition,” “consequently,” and “therefore.”

• To introduce a contrasting idea: “However, it is important to consider the limitations of this solution.”
• To add another idea: “Moreover, increasing public awareness about the issue can also be an effective solution.”
• To give an example: “For instance, a similar policy was implemented in Sweden with great success.”

Use pronouns and referencing: Use pronouns and referencing to link sentences and ideas. This helps to avoid repetition and keeps the essay cohesive. For example, instead of saying “the problem is” and “the solution is,” you can use pronouns like “it” or “this” to refer back to the problem and solution.

• Instead of repeating “the problem” and “the solution”: “This problem can be addressed by implementing policies to reduce plastic use and increase recycling. It will have a positive impact on the environment.”
• To connect related ideas: “Increasing access to education and job training can help to address unemployment. This can also lead to greater economic stability.”

Use parallel structures: Use parallel structures to make your essay easier to follow. Parallel structures are when you use the same grammatical structure to present a series of ideas. For example, “not only A, but also B” is a parallel structure.

• “Not only can this policy reduce carbon emissions, but it can also promote sustainable energy sources.”
• “This problem can be addressed by educating the public about the harmful effects of smoking, implementing smoke-free policies, and increasing access to smoking cessation programs.”
• “Not only is climate change a global problem, but it also requires a global solution.”
• “This issue can be addressed by increasing funding for education, providing job training programs, and creating more job opportunities.”
• “Not only can renewable energy sources reduce carbon emissions, but they can also create new job opportunities in the green energy sector.”
• “This problem can be addressed by reducing class sizes, providing more resources for teachers, and increasing access to education for disadvantaged students.”

Incorporate varied and precise vocabulary: Use varied and precise vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency and show that you have a strong understanding of the problem and solution. Use synonyms and antonyms to avoid repetition and add depth to your essay. Use precise words and phrases to accurately convey your ideas and opinions.

• Instead of repeating “problem”: “This issue is multifaceted and requires a comprehensive solution.”
• Instead of repeating “solution”: “A viable remedy for this issue is to increase funding for mental health services and support programs.”
• Instead of repeating “important”: “It is imperative that we take action to address this issue.”
• Instead of repeating “impact”: “This policy will have far-reaching implications for the economy and society as a whole.”
• Instead of repeating “good”: “This approach has proven to be effective in achieving positive outcomes.”
• Instead of repeating “important”: “It is crucial to address this issue in a timely and effective manner.”
• Instead of repeating “effective”: “This policy has been proven to be successful in other countries and can be adapted to this context.”

Use examples: Use examples to illustrate your points and add clarity to your essay. Examples can help to make abstract concepts more concrete and relatable to the reader.

• To illustrate a point: “For example, in the Netherlands, implementing a congestion pricing policy has led to a significant decrease in traffic congestion.”
• To provide evidence: “According to a recent study by the World Health Organization, increasing physical activity levels can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.”

By using cohesive devices and incorporating varied and precise vocabulary, you can greatly improve the overall flow and clarity of your problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2.

10. Proofreading and Polishing Your Essay

Proofreading and polishing your essay is an important final step in writing a problem-solution essay for IELTS Writing Task 2. Here are some tips for proofreading and polishing your essay:

• Take a break: After you finish writing your essay, take a break and come back to it later. This can help you approach the essay with a fresh perspective and catch errors that you may have missed before.

• Check for consistency: Check for consistency in your use of vocabulary, grammar, and formatting. Ensure that you have used the same tense throughout the essay and that your headings and subheadings are consistent.

• Check for coherence: Check that your essay is coherent and flows logically. Ensure that each paragraph follows logically from the previous one and that your arguments are presented in a clear and organized manner.

• Use a checklist: Use a checklist to ensure that you have addressed all parts of the prompt and that you have included all necessary components in your essay.

• Get feedback: Have someone else read your essay and provide feedback. This can help you identify areas for improvement and catch errors that you may have missed.

By proofreading and polishing your essay, you can ensure that your essay is well-written, error-free, and effectively communicates your ideas.

11. Final Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes in IELTS Writing Task 2 problem solution essays and how to avoid them:

• Failing to fully address the prompt: It is important to read the prompt carefully and address all parts of the question. Make sure that you understand the prompt and answer the question completely.

• Lack of organization and structure: To write an effective problem-solution essay, it is important to have a clear structure and organization. Make sure that your essay has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Focusing too much on the problem and not enough on the solution: While it is important to analyze the problem, it is equally important to propose a practical and effective solution. Make sure that you dedicate enough space in your essay to both analyzing the problem and proposing a solution.

• Failing to use specific examples and evidence: Using specific examples and evidence can add depth and credibility to your essay. Make sure to use relevant data, statistics, and examples to support your arguments.

• Lack of coherence and cohesion: To make your essay coherent and cohesive, use cohesive devices such as transition words and phrases, and make sure that your essay flows logically from one idea to the next.

• Poor grammar and vocabulary: Poor grammar and vocabulary can negatively impact your score. Make sure to use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures, and proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors.

To avoid these common mistakes, it is important to carefully read and understand the prompt, develop a clear structure and organization for your essay, use specific examples and evidence to support your arguments, use cohesive devices and varied vocabulary, and proofread your essay carefully. By avoiding these mistakes, you can improve your chances of scoring well on the IELTS Writing Task 2 problem-solution essay.

Sample essays

Conclusion