2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem and Solution Essay with Samples

What Is a Problem and Solution Essay in IELTS Writing Task 2?

In the previous blogs, we covered how to write opinion essays and discussion essays in IELTS Writing Part 2. Another common question type that one will see in this section is the Problem and Solution Essay. These questions ask you to:

• Describe a problem
• Suggest one or more solutions

You’ll write an essay of at least 250 words in formal English, and you have 40 minutes to complete it. This question type appears in both the Academic and General Training IELTS tests.

Common IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem and Solution Questions

Here are real-style IELTS Writing Task 2 questions shared by test takers:

• Traffic congestion is becoming a major problem in many cities around the world. What are the problems associated with this, and what can be done to solve them?
• Children today find it difficult to concentrate or pay attention in school. What are the causes of this, and how could the problem be solved?
• Many young people find it difficult to find a job after graduating from university. What problems does this cause, and what are possible solutions?
• Plastic waste is a growing problem in the environment. What are the causes of this issue and how can individuals and governments reduce plastic pollution?

See more up-to-date IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics here 📘

How to Approach a Problem and Solution Essay

This task type usually follows one of two formats:

1. What are the problems? What are the solutions?
2. What is the cause of the problem? What can be done about it?

Your job is to:

• Clearly describe the problem
• Explain why it's a problem (with an example)
• Propose a solution (or two)
• Explain how the solution helps

IELTS Writing Task 2 Template: Problem and Solution

Introduction

• Paraphrase the question
• Mention that the essay will explore the problem(s) and possible solution(s)

Body Paragraph 1 – Problem

• Describe the main problem clearly
• Explain causes or effects of the problem
• Add a real-life or hypothetical example

Body Paragraph 2 – Solution

• Suggest one or two practical solutions
• Explain how the solution would address the problem
• Give a specific example if possible

Conclusion

• Summarize the main problem and your solution(s)
• You can briefly re-emphasize the importance of taking action

💡 Alternative introductions:

1. “One of the most pressing issues in modern society is ____. This essay will examine the causes and suggest effective solutions.”
2. “Many people are concerned about ____. In this essay, both the problem and possible solutions will be discussed.”

Sample Essay (Band 8+)

Question: Many university graduates find it difficult to get a job in their chosen field. What problems does this cause? What are some possible solutions?

Sample Answer:

In many countries, recent university graduates face significant challenges when trying to secure employment in their area of study. This situation can lead to widespread frustration and underemployment. In this essay, I will discuss the problems this trend creates and offer potential solutions.

One major problem is that graduates often feel disillusioned and demotivated when they cannot find work related to their degrees. For instance, a student who has studied engineering may end up working in retail or hospitality, which not only wastes their academic potential but also leads to a mismatch in the job market. This can result in a lack of job satisfaction and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, the economy suffers when skilled individuals are not placed in roles that fully utilize their expertise.

To address this issue, universities and governments should collaborate to align education with labor market needs. First, universities could provide better career counseling and internship opportunities that prepare students for real-world jobs. Second, governments could invest in job creation schemes or offer incentives to companies that hire fresh graduates in their field. For example, offering tax benefits to companies that provide graduate training programs could bridge the gap between education and employment.

In conclusion, the difficulty graduates face in finding relevant employment can lead to personal frustration and economic inefficiency. However, through stronger university-industry partnerships and targeted job support initiatives, this issue can be effectively mitigated.

Word Count: 275

Tips for IELTS Problem and Solution Essays

✅ Identify the problem clearly and explain why it matters

✅ Suggest solutions that are practical and realistic

✅ Support both your problem and solution with specific examples

✅ Use formal vocabulary (e.g., “implement,” “initiative,” “consequence”)

✅ Don’t list too many problems or solutions—1 or 2 is enough

✅ Stay focused: don’t go off-topic!

Summary

IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem and Solution essays test your ability to:

• Understand real-world issues
• Propose logical, realistic solutions
• Express ideas in formal academic English

These essays are not just about describing a problem—they're about analyzing it clearly and proposing thoughtful solutions. Stay organized, and always support your ideas with examples.

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