IELTS Writing Task 2: Problem-Solution Essay Guide

What Is an IELTS Problem-Solution Essay?

A problem-solution essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 presents you with a real-world issue. You are then asked to:

• Identify the problem (or cause)
• Suggest one or more solutions

The core task is to clearly explain the issue and offer practical, well-supported suggestions. You may be asked about reasons, consequences, solutions, or all of the above.

Types of Problem-Solution Prompts

1. Solution-only Essay

These essays ask only for suggestions.

Examples:

• What solutions can you offer?
• What measures can be taken to address this issue?
• How can this problem be resolved?

Here, you're not required to identify causes or effects—just describe feasible solutions.

2. Cause + Solution Essay

These are very common and require you to explain why a problem exists and how it can be addressed.

Examples:

• What are the reasons for this? What solutions can you suggest?
• Why is this happening? What measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

This is a two-part question: one paragraph for causes, one for solutions.

3. Problem + Solution Essay

These ask you to describe the specific problems caused by a situation and how to fix them.

Examples:

• What problems does this cause? What answers can you suggest?
• What problems are associated with this trend? How can they be solved?

Be careful to distinguish:

• Causes = Why it’s happening
• Problems = What it causes

How Is This Different from Other Essay Types?

• Problem–Solution: Identify a problem and suggest solutions
• Cause–Solution: Explain the reasons and give solutions
• Advantages–Disadvantages: Discuss pros and cons of a situation
• Opinion (Agree/Disagree): Take a clear stance on a statement
• Discussion + Opinion: Discuss both views and give your opinion
• Double Question: Two separate questions, not necessarily cause/solution

How to Structure a Problem–Solution IELTS Essay

Standard Four-Paragraph Format:

1. Introduction
   • Paraphrase the topic
   • Briefly mention the problem and indicate you will suggest solutions
2. Body Paragraph 1 – Problem or Cause
   • Describe the problem clearly
   • Use one or two examples
   • Explain the consequences
3. Body Paragraph 2 – Solution(s)
   • Suggest 1–2 practical solutions
   • Explain how they address the problem
   • Consider feasibility and potential impact
4. Conclusion
   • Summarize the problem and restate key solutions
   • Optionally, give a final opinion if appropriate

Sample IELTS Problem-Solution Essay Questions with Analysis

Question 1

More and more people are moving to cities to find work, leaving behind their rural communities.
What problems does this cause? What can be done to deal with these problems?

Analysis: Problem + Solution

• Problems: Overcrowding, housing shortages, rural decline
• Solutions: Decentralized jobs, rural investment, remote work incentives

Question 2

Many children spend a lot of time playing video games.
Why is this the case? Is it a good or bad development?

Analysis: Cause + Opinion (⚠️ Not a problem-solution essay; see double-question IELTS essay guide)

Question 3

Traffic congestion is becoming a serious issue in many cities.
What are the causes of this problem? What solutions can you suggest?

Analysis: Cause + Solution

Question 4

Plastic waste is becoming a major environmental concern around the world.
What problems does this cause? What measures can be taken to address it?

Analysis: Problem + Solution

Question 5

More students are choosing to study abroad.
What are the problems this can cause in the home country? What solutions can you offer?

Analysis: Problem + Solution

Tips to Ace the Problem-Solution Essay

• ✅ Identify the type of prompt
• ✅ Spend 3–5 minutes planning
• ✅ Use clear topic sentences
• ✅ Be specific and logical
• ✅ Use linking devices like "As a result..." or "One possible solution is..."
• ❌ Don’t confuse problems with causes

Vocabulary for Problem-Solution Essays

Using topic-specific and academic vocabulary will help you impress the examiner. Here are a few useful phrases:

• Problems: A major challenge is… / This issue results in… / This causes widespread concern…
• Solutions: One possible remedy is… / This can be addressed by… / Governments should implement…
• Consequences: This may lead to… / As a result of this trend… / A long-term consequence could be…

📘👉 Check our IELTS Writing Vocabulary Masterlist

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